Veteran Suicide Prevention
Monday November 11th is Veterans Day! Tell the veterans you know that they are valued, loved, respected and appreciated!
On a somber note, Veterans are 1.5 times more likely to die by suicide than nonveteran adults, the reason for this includes, PTSD, high exposure to trauma, stress and burnout, isolation and loneliness, easy access to and familiarity with guns, difficulties reintegrating into civilian life, which can lead to alcohol and drug abuse.
If you know a Veteran in crisis, here is how you can help:
S.A.V.E. (Signs, Ask, Validate, Encourage)
Know the Signs that indicate a Veteran might be thinking about suicide:
? Hopelessness, feeling like there’s no way out
? Anxiety, agitation, sleeplessness, or mood swings
? Feeling like there’s no reason to live
? Rage or anger
? Increasing alcohol or drug use
? Withdrawing from family and friends
If you or a Veteran you know is experiencing any of these signs, call 911 now:
? When asked, they express a desire to hurt or kill themself
? They talk about death, dying, or suicide
? They exhibit self-destructive behavior, such as increased drug or alcohol use, talking about obtaining/ using weapons for self-harm, or saving up medication.
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Ask the most important questions of all:
"Are you thinking of killing yourself?" Or “Are you thinking of suicide?” or “Have you had thoughts about taking your own life?”
When talking with a Veteran who may be at risk for suicide: ? Remain calm ? Listen more than you speak ? Maintain eye contact ? Act with confidence ? Do not argue ? Limit questions—Let the Veteran do the talking ? Use supportive comments ? Be honest—There are no quick solutions, but help is available!
Validate the Veteran’s experience:
Let the Veteran know you’re listening and acknowledge their experience:
? Talk openly about suicide. Be willing to listen, allow the Veteran to express their feelings, and make supportive, encouraging comments.
? Recognize the situation is serious and don't pass judgement.
Encourage treatment and expedite getting help:
If a Veteran is having thoughts of suicide, remain calm and reassure them help is available:
? DON’T keep the Veteran’s suicidal behavior a secret.
? DON’T leave them alone.
? Try to get the Veteran to seek immediate help from their doctor or the nearest hospital or emergency room, call or text the Veteran Crisis Line Dial 988, call 911.
For more information visit the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs
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