Suicide Prevention Month
Suicide Prevention graphic: Veterans Crisis Line: 800-273-8255, press 1.
We all have a role to play when it comes to preventing suicide. This Suicide Prevention Month, learn the warning signs associated with suicide:
• Talking or writing about suicide or death
• Displaying a sense of hopelessness and worthlessness
• Reckless behavior like driving too fast
• Giving away possessions
• Increased use of drugs or alcohol
• Preparatory behavior, like stock-pilling medications.
• Buying a rope and fashioning a noose
What to do if you recognize warning signs in a friend or family member?
• Probe a little bit. Is the person experiencing psychological or mental pain? Ask how you can help?
• Talk openly to the person; don’t be afraid to be ask, “Are you thinking about taking your life?” Asking does not put the thought in a person’s mind, but rather it opens an important dialogue.
• If they say yes, do NOT leave them alone. Explain that you will get help.
• Remain calm, be direct and non-judgmental. Call 911.
• Ask the person how they plan on taking their life.
• Never promise to keep a person’s thoughts, plans or intent of suicide a secret.
• Remember, they have opened up because they want help.
The medical center’s Suicide Prevention Program Office has a comprehensive plan that includes: handling referrals from the Crisis Line; accessing high risk Veterans, keeping close contact with Veterans and educating staff to recognize warning signs of suicide. They also have an open-door policy to their office on the third floor and a lot of Veterans stop by to chat.
During National Suicide Prevention Week, September 9-13, the team has several activities planned:
Suicide Prevention Awareness and Information Fair
September 10, 9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.
Medical Center Atrium
Suicide Prevention Awareness Walk and Information Fair
September 11, 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Medical Center Atrium
The walk begins at noon from the Atrium. Bring comfortable walking shoes.
Gun Safety Day
September 12, 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Medical Center Atrium
Join us for Suicide Prevention Awareness and gun safety information and free gun locks for Veterans.
If you or a Veteran you know needs help, please know that help is just a phone call, text or online chat away. The Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7:
By Phone:
Call 1-800-273-8255, press 1.
By Text:
You can also reach the Crisis Line by texting 838255
By Chat Line: You can reach the Crisis Line by using the confidential chat line: VeteransCrisisLine.net.
