Suicide is preventable. There is evidence-based research that is effective in overcoming suicidal thoughts.
According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans account for 13.5% of all suicide deaths in the United States. The National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report (2019), stated that the suicide rate among Veterans is 1.5 times greater than the non-Veteran population ages 18+, with over 6,000 Veterans dying by suicide each year.
Firearms account for 69.4% of Veteran suicides in 2017.
We continue to use the acronym ACE:
A-ASK “Do you have thoughts of hurting yourself or others?”
C-CARE by showing compassion and empathy to someone struggling with these negative suicidal thoughts
E-ESCORT to the nearest emergency room.
Steps for gun and medication safety in the home:
- Better storage practices help make the home environment safe and ultimately save lives. Creating a safe environment when you or a family member is suicidal reduces suicides.
- Gun Locks
- Gun Safe
- Safety on prescription/Opioids
- Talk to a Veteran about Firearm safety
- Use Apps on the phone about mental health
- Medication safety.
- Make a connection
If you are having difficulty with negative thoughts, suicidality, psychosis, worsening depression, click on this link for an appointment
Veterans Crisis Line
1-800-273-TALK (8255) Press 1 for Veterans,
24/7 Phone, chat, and text
Additional services available for the deaf and hard of hearing (800)-799-4889
Military One Source
1-800-342-9647
24/7 confidential phone and chat for Veterans, service members, and their families
Psychological Health Resource Center
866-966-1020
24/7 phone, chat, email for Service members, veterans, family members, clinicians, commanders, or anyone with a question about psychological health in the military.
TAPS National Military Survivor Helpline
1-800-959-TAPS (8277)
24/7 phone and chat for military families and loss survivors
