Raising Awareness in September

Every September, Suicide Prevention Month gives individuals and communities across the country an opportunity to reflect on the ways we can all prevent suicide, including among Veterans.

You don’t need special training to help prevent suicide, and even simple actions of support can make a real difference to a Veteran going through a difficult time. For instance, asking how a Veteran is doing — and listening — shows you care. Other thoughtful ways you can Be There include:

• Calling an old friend to say hello
• Sending a text to check in (for example, “Hey, we haven’t talked in a while … how are you?”)
• Reaching out and sharing resources when you read a social media post that may indicate thoughts of suicide
• Sharing stories of hope and positivity on your social media accounts
• Getting S.A.V.E. suicide prevention training online from PsychArmor Institute to learn how to talk to a Veteran who is having suicidal thoughts

Suicide is preventable, and each of these actions could help save a life. To end Veteran suicide, we all must work together. We all have a role to play, during Suicide Prevention Month and every month. Thank you for joining us in this mission.