How You Can Help
Anyone can play a role in preventing Veteran suicide, and you don’t have to be an expert to talk to a Veteran facing challenges. A simple phone call can help a Veteran in crisis, whose emotional struggles and health challenges may lead to thoughts of suicide.
Take a Self-Check Assessment
People cope with stressful situations in different ways. If you feel like a Veteran in your life might be heading toward a crisis, VA or community-based services could help. Encourage them to take a confidential, anonymous risk assessment to see if stress and depression might be affecting them.
Support a Veteran
If a Veteran you care about is facing a tough time or having thoughts of suicide, you have an opportunity to support them. While a conversation may seem daunting, remember this: preventing Veteran suicide starts with a conversation.
When you notice signs of crisis or distress, let them know the Veterans Crisis Line is available. Qualified responders are ready to listen and connect them with continued support, even after the call. Reassure them the call is confidential, and they can choose exactly how much information to share.
You can even offer to make the call together through a three-way call. You can introduce the Veteran to the trained responder and stay on the line until they feel safe and supported. Ask if they’d prefer to continue the conversation privately, or if they’d like you to stay on the line with them.
Being ready to offer help and connect a Veteran to immediate support can make all the difference during a crisis. You can act even sooner by empowering yourself to recognize the warning signs.
Learn to Recognize Signs
Every Veteran is different, and many may not show any signs of intent to kill themselves. But some actions and behaviors can be a sign that they need help. Learn to recognize the signs of crisis so you can support a Veteran going through a difficult time.
Crisis Signs
These signs require immediate attention. If you are experiencing any of these and need medical attention, call 911 now. For immediate help in managing a suicide crisis, contact the Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 then Press 1.
- Thinking about hurting or killing yourself
- Looking for ways to kill yourself
- Talking about death, dying, or suicide
- Self-destructive behavior, such as drug abuse, risky use of weapons, etc.
Warning Signs
These signs may indicate that a Veteran needs help. If you or a Veteran you know is experiencing any of these, contact the Veterans Crisis Line now: Dial 988 then Press 1.
- Appearing sad or depressed most of the time
- Hopelessness
- Anxiety, agitation, sleeplessness, or mood swings
- Feeling as if there is no reason to live
- Feeling excessive guilt, shame, or sense of failure
- Rage or anger
- Engaging in risky activities without thinking
- Increasing alcohol or drug misuse
- Losing interest in hobbies, work, or school
- Neglecting personal welfare and appearance
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- Showing violent behavior, like punching a hole in the wall or getting into fights
- Giving away prized possessions
- Getting affairs in order, tying up loose ends, or writing a will
Start a Conversation
You don’t have to be an expert to talk to a Veteran facing challenges. You just need to show genuine care and concern. Here are some things to remember: