Musings: An invisible war against our heroes

Since 9/11, more than 30,000 service members and veterans have died by suicide — four times more than the 7,000 killed in combat. In law enforcement, an average of 184 officers die by suicide each year, compared to roughly 130 line-of-duty deaths. The mental health toll is undeniable.

We are facing an invisible war, and it’s claiming the lives of those sworn to protect us. We must prioritize protecting them.

Suicide is the 11th-leading cause of death in the United States, but for our military and law enforcement, it remains the leading cause. That should sound an alarm — especially on Long Island, where its impact has been deeply felt.

We must address mental health throughout and beyond the careers of those who serve. From day one in the academy or boot camp to post-retirement, support must be a priority. There also needs to be an emphasis on ways they can proactively strengthen and maintain their mental resilience through various self-care practices they can incorporate into their lives.

Mental health is physical health. It’s not enough to check a box with a training day and a quick PowerPoint display. That’s not care — that’s compliance. We need culture change: real conversations, real resources, and real support.

We also need to honor and celebrate our heroes while they’re still here — not just after they’re gone. Recognition shouldn’t wait for funerals. Let’s show up for them the way they show up for us — with gratitude, connection, and care.

— Jeff Benaim, Smithtown

The writer founded Project Patriot 22, a veteran- and law enforcement-operated nonprofit focused on mental health awareness for those who serve.