Military advocates like Senator Joe Donnelly are speaking out about Donald Trump’s comments on military veterans with PTSD.

Critics say that by using the word “strong,” Trump painted vets suffering from PTSD as “weak”.

Senator Joe Donnelly issued a statement, saying: “The stigma surrounding mental health issues is one of our biggest challenges in bringing down suicide rates among service members and veterans. We need to dismiss the idea that mental health issues signify weakness, and reinforce that there is strength in seeking help, particularly among those who are battling the invisible wounds of war.”

Since joining the Senate in 2013, Donnelly has worked to strengthen mental health care for servicemembers, veterans, and their families.

The earlier story from AP:

HERNDON, Va. (AP) — Donald Trump is drawing criticism after he appeared to suggest that veterans who suffer from PTSD might not be as strong as those who don’t.

Trump made the reference Monday as he discussed his commitment to improving mental health services for veterans at an event held by the Retired American Warriors political action committee.

Trump said, “When people come back from war and combat, and they see things that maybe a lot of the folks in this room have seen many times over, and you’re strong and you can handle it. But a lot of people can’t handle it.”

Trump has often cited improving mental health services for veterans as a top priority of he makes it to the White House.

He says, “We are losing so many great people that can be taken care of if they have proper care.”