AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – While the holidays can be an exciting time for people, some may experience seasonal depression. 

The VA Augusta says the need for mental health resources is even more critical for those in the veteran community. 

So, how can our veterans get help in Augusta? 

The VA says the first step is to seek help — reaching out through the veterans’ crisis hotline or seeking help in person at one of the two VA medical centers in Augusta.  

The VA says addressing mental health is more important than ever with rising suicide rates among the veteran community. 

From the frontlines to the home front, the big question for many veterans coming home is what’s next. 

VA Suicide Prevention Coordinator Alex Wright says he knows from experience the resources veterans need when they come off the battlefield. 

“I’m a veteran myself. Deployed twice, so I know what it feels like to be a veteran and have certain needs. I get an instant piece of self-fulfillment by helping someone else in need,” said Wright. 

The VA says the need is growing for mental health assistance as it’s tracking an increase in veteran suicides.  

More than 6,000 veterans committed suicide in 2022.  

Wright says several reasons are responsible for the high number. 

“They come from a transition period. Veterans are coming directly from the military into civilian life, and also many veterans that come back play a part,” said Wright. 

It’s a battle they’re trying to tackle one resource at a time. 

“We do a lot of clinical coordination working with other mental health providers, making sure that patients come to their appointments and have somewhere to reach out to,” said Wright. 

Wright says you’re not alone, but it starts with reaching out. 

“It starts with getting care for yourself and also recognizing that we all can benefit from some care and some form of facet,” he said. 

The VA says according to recent data, about 17 veterans commit suicide each day.  

Coordinators with the VA are urging veterans to seek out the resources provided locally.

The VA helps with more than just mental health. They also help with resources like housing through their HUD/VASH Program or food assistance.  

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WASHINGTON – D.C. police are asking for the public’s help identifying a man accused of committing fraud and theft at the Four Seasons Hotel in Georgetown. 

The incident occurred on Sunday, November 24, around 3 p.m. at the luxury hotel located on the 2800 block of Pennsylvania Avenue NW.

Surveillance footage captured the suspect arriving at the hotel in a Porsche SUV. He was seen wearing dark pants and a puffy winter coat, carrying a backpack. The man entered the hotel and was observed speaking with an employee at the front desk.

According to police, the suspect then dined at the hotel’s restaurant, ordering various items and charging them to a room number he was not registered to. 

Following his meal, he proceeded to the hotel gym for a workout before leaving the premises and driving away in the Porsche.

Detectives are urging anyone who recognizes the suspect to contact them. A reward of $1,000 is being offered for information leading to an arrest and conviction in this case.

Attempts to reach the Four Seasons Hotel management for comment were unsuccessful, as they declined to discuss the incident.