U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
10/05/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 10/05/2024 07:49
Find suicide prevention and mental health resources with Psych Hub
The sharing of any non-VA information does not constitute an endorsement of products and services on the part of VA. Veterans should verify the information with the organization offering.
Psych Hub is dedicated to educating individuals and their families about mental health. Every Veteran's life is valuable. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. By coming together, we can combat the stigma surrounding mental health and show that there is hope, even in the darkest moments.
As we recently recognized Suicide Prevention Month, there is no better time to put our mental health at the forefront. We think about taking care of our physical health as prevention to not get physically ill, but equally as important, we need to think about protecting our mental health so we don't get mentally sick.
The problem is real. In 2022, there were 49,500 deaths by suicide in the U.S., making it the 12th leading cause of death in the country. Veterans are at a 57.3% higher risk of suicide compared to their civilian counterparts.
What is suicidal ideation?
What You Can Do Today
- Connect with others. Isolation can be dangerous. Reach out to a friend, fellow Veteran or family member.
- Know the signs. If you or someone you know is withdrawing, feeling hopeless or expressing thoughts of suicide, seek help immediately.
- Take care of yourself. Prioritize your mental health just like you would your physical health.
- Get educated. Knowledge is power. Being educated about your mental health empowers you to build resilience, leading to overall well-being and a better quality of life.
- You are not alone. It's important to remember reaching out for support is not a sign of weakness but can be a courageous step toward healing.
- Don't Wait. Reach Out. Suicide is complicated and difficult life events-such as employment struggles, financial pressures, or relationship problems-can increase the risk. The "Don't Wait. Reach Out." campaign aims to help Veterans cope with various life challenges before they become too much to handle.
Free Resources
-
The Suicide Prevention Playlist on YouTube offers free videos to help identify the signs of someone in crisis and the best ways to provide support. From learning how to talk openly about suicide to recognizing early warning signs, these tools can make a life-saving difference.
- PsychArmor offers several free educational content and resources for Veterans and those who support them.
Together, We Can Make a Difference.
Psych Hub on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/PsychHubEd/.
Psych Hub on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/psychhubeducation/.
PsychArmor on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/PsychArmor.
Psych Armor on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/psych_armor/.
If you're a Veteran in crisis or concerned about one, contact the Veterans Crisis Line to receive 24/7 confidential support. You don't have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to connect. To reach responders, Dial 988 then Press 1, chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat, or text 838255.