Thursday, veterans organizations and military leaders discussed mental health issues facing veterans during the James E. Van Zandt VAMC Veterans Health and Wellness Community Summit.

Substance abuse, PTSD and depression are mental health issues facing soldiers returning from war. They contribute to the growing suicide rate among U.S. veterans, which increased over 32 percent from 2001 to 2014.

That figure is more than just a statistic to Russell Crupe Sr., whose son took his own life after returning from Iraq in 2012.

“He was instilled to love God, country and his family,” said Crupe Sr.

The summit was held at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown campus. Military leaders, veterans organizations and military families discussed resources and improving suicide prevention training. Those at the summit said breaking the stigma surrounding mental illness and learning how to recognize when someone needs help are two of the biggest hurdles facing veterans and active duty military.

“There have to be more people for them to talk to. Maybe not necessarily military, where there could be a stigma attached,” Crupe Sr. said.

A new treatment for traumatic brain injuries could help veterans suffering from Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The neuroimaging clinical trial, called TEAM TBI, was conducted by the University of Pittsburgh and funded by the Department of Defense. The scans show damaged parts of the brain in detail, allowing for targeted treatment.

“The more you treat their underlying symptoms, hopefully that will decrease post-traumatic stress which will have a direct impact in decreasing the suicide rate,” said Dr. Ronald Poropatich, the executive director of the Center for Military Medicine Research.

Saturday, Sept. 16 would have been Crupe’s son’s 38th birthday. Crupe Sr. said the military needs to educate families on what signs to look for so others won’t experience his pain.

“Ultimately, when we lose a child, it affects the whole community in one way or another,” said Crupe Sr.

You can reach the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs confidential crisis helpline for veterans and their families by calling: 1-800-273-8255 and pressing 1.