September is Suicide Prevention Month

Truman VA encourages everyone to “be there” for veterans, help connect them with resources

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September is Suicide Prevention Month and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) wants to remind everyone that small actions can make a big difference to Veterans experiencing difficult times.

During this and every month, Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital remains committed to spreading awareness about suicide prevention by connecting Veterans with the resources they need.

“Studies have shown that an average of 20 military Veterans die by suicide every day,” said Patricia Hall, PhD, FACHE, medical center director of Truman VA. “However, of those 20, 14 were not receiving VA care. At VA, we know our Veterans. That’s why we work so hard within our communities to ensure that all possible resources are coordinated and available to our nation’s heroes. But we need everyone’s help.”

Hall also pointed out that a Veteran doesn’t need to be enrolled in VA health care to receive in-crisis support.

“We always are here for our Veterans,” Hall said. “We’re here for them in sickness, wellness and crisis. Remember: VA will care for ANY Veteran experiencing a mental health crisis.”

This year, VA is using the “Be There” campaign to promote several action steps that can help make a difference for a Veteran in crisis.

  • Learn about the warning signs of suicide, found on the Veterans Crisis Line website.
  • Watch the free S.A.V.E. training video to learn how to respond with care and compassion if someone indicates they are having suicidal thoughts.
  • Contact VA’s Coaching Into Care program where a licensed psychologist or social worker will provide loved ones with guidance for motivating Veterans to seek support.
  • Share stories of hope and recovery from VA’s Make the Connection.
  • Reach out to the Veterans in your life to show them you care by sending a check-in text, cook them dinner or simply ask, “how are you?”
  • If you or a Veteran you know is having suicidal thoughts, we encourage you to visit the closest VA health facility. All VA hospitals offer same-day urgent mental health care services. Veterans, their families and friends also may call the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 and then press 1, text to 838255, or chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat.

“Our clinicians certainly are mindful of indicators that might suggest suicidal thoughts during clinical appointments,” Hall said. “However, we will realize the most success in the prevention of suicide when we work beyond our walls and within our communities.”