Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services organized, coordinated, and led a panel of thought-leaders, researchers, and practitioners addressing veterans’ mental health and wellness at the American Legion Washington Conference February 26-28. The American Legion Washington Conference brings American Legion leadership, including hundreds of chapter presidents, from across the country, to Washington, D.C. to engage with Senators and Congressional Representatives on the most important issues impacting veterans and their families.

Reducing veteran suicide is at the top of the American Legion’s legislative agenda for the 118^th Congress and Dixon Center led a discussion that identified not only the challenges that lead to isolation and disconnection in the veteran community, but also identified a holistic approach to wellness that “creates lives worth living.” We also highlighted the need for more research into alternative approaches that can complement traditional methods for mental health and wellness, the need for education and training on gun and ammunition safe storage (70% of veteran suicides involve a firearm), and the importance of including families, along with veterans, in wellness programs.

The Legionnaires were engaged throughout, and we concluded with thoughtful and earnest questions from the audience.  Their commitment to enhancing the wellness of the military-connected community was on clear display throughout the conference.

Dixon Center leading a convening of leaders, practitioners, and researchers who are committed to reducing veteran suicide and enhancing overall wellness for veterans and their families (at the American Legion Washington Conference).