‘Civilians don’t understand’: Vietnam veteran from Topeka speaks out about mental health

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - “My senior trip was in Vietnam,” said Vietnam Veteran Bruce Couch.

Bruce Couch joined the U.S. Navy in 1971, an experience he says was life-changing.

“In the three tours I did we lost 14 air crews that didn’t come home. I’ve got three friends of mine on the Vietnam wall in Washington,” said Couch.

He came home in 1978, only to be confronted with hate on top of the loss.

“We were called baby killers, we were spit on at the airport, and we were told we couldn’t wear our uniforms home,” said Couch.

Couch says veterans should speak out to process the pain.

“I’ve lost three or four friends to suicide. They turned to alcohol and drugs and then finally ended their life. For what they saw and what they’re trained to do, it’s tough. Back here at home, they don’t seem to understand that,” said Couch.

“Veterans have higher risk factors due to mental health issues and transition issues,” said Veteran Affairs Suicide Prevention Program Manager Sarah Baker.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs says it’s always worth reaching out to others for help.

“Veterans are often the first people to help others and it is hard for them to ask for help and get help. That starts with an immediate support system and community surrounding the veteran,” said Baker.

Something as simple as locking up firearms could save lives.

“72% of veterans that die by suicide die by firearms. Half of our service members own firearms. My favorite thing to say is let’s find ways to prevent it from becoming a crisis,” said Baker.

The VA will be hosting the Eastern Kansas Community Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Summit on Sept 18. at the Lied Center in Lawrence.

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