According to the National Institute of Mental Health, around 130 people die by suicide every day. It's a rate that has steadily increased over the past couple of decades.

These numbers are based on statistics from 2021. More than 48,000 people took their own lives that year. That is nearly double the amount of homicides.

One demographic particularly hit hard is veterans. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, almost 6,400 veterans died by suicide that year.

During National Suicide Prevention Month and every other month of the year, Rochester's Veterans Outreach Center provides information on how to help veterans who may be considering suicide.

"I think that what we have found over the years is there is not much more that resonates deeper with people than connecting with someone who has had a lived traumatic experience," said Laura Heltz, executive director of the Veterans Outreach Center. "Certainly, therapy is important, or medication in a lot of cases, but having that peer support, you can't put a price tag on it."

Other organizations like VA centers also offer help to veterans.

If you or anyone you know may be struggling with suicidal thoughts, dial 988 for the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also reach the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and then pressing 1.