KHTS
By. Linsey Towles

To read the full article click here. 

Congressman Mike Garcia (Santa Clarita-R) co-sponsored a bipartisan bill which would help establish a support program for veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).
The PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program Act would set up a peer-to-peer support program known as the Dwyer program for veterans to receive help. 

“I know many veterans who have PTSD or TBI because of their service in the military and I’ve lost too many friends – and many of them to suicide because they thought they were able to compartmentalize when in reality they needed the help,” said Garcia. 

The bill is named after PFC Joseph Dwyer, an Iraq War veteran who lost his battle with PTSD.

Last week, Garcia spoke on the House Floor in support of this legislation and the need to raise awareness for veterans battling PTSD and TBI.  

“The mental toughness taught in the military does not mean staying silent and not reaching out for help. Instead, I believe that receiving help and talking with a professional or a fellow veteran shows resilience…that’s what real toughness looks like,” Garcia said.

Click here to read more from Garcia on PTSD and mental health in the military.