September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and we here at VA want to stress that you are not alone. You served our country, please let us serve you back
If you are in immediate crisis:
- Please call 988 and press 1.
- Please reach out out for a confidential chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat or text 838255
You will contact with our 24/7 confidential Veterans Crisis Line. You will connect with a real person qualified to help you. The Veterans Crisis Line serves Veterans, Service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and those who support them. You don’t have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to call.
If you suspect a family member or battle buddy is in crisis, remember S.A.V.E.
- Signs of suicidal thinking
This may include feelings of hopelessness, anxiety, insomnia, rage, risky behavior, substance abuse, withdrawing from family and friends, or talking about dying.
- Ask the question
Don’t be afraid to ask the most important question of all: “Are you thinking of suicide?”
- Validate the person’s experience
Talk openly and listen to the individual’s thoughts and feelings. Remain calm, do not argue, and use supportive, encouraging comments to show you care.
- Encourage Treatment and Expedite Getting Help
Make sure the individual knows that help is available. If a person is having suicidal thoughts, seek immediate help from emergency services.
You can learn more about suicide prevention at the following links:
