Veterans News

Mental Health Resources for Suicide Prevention Month

During September, which is National Suicide Prevention Month, we’re sharing mental health resources that may be helpful to veterans and the Elks who support them. Please check out these links and spread the word to anyone in your community who wants to get involved with veteran suicide prevention.

  • To reach the Veterans Crisis Line for 24/7 confidential crisis support for veterans and their loved ones, dial 988 then press 1. You can also reach the Crisis Line by texting 838255 or starting an online chat on the Crisis Line website.
  • VA’s welcome guide includes information about accessing mental health care when not in crisis and how eligibility for benefits is determined. Some mental health services, like the Crisis Line, do not require VA enrollment.
  • The National Alliance on Mental Illness provides a toolkit and resources for raising awareness and taking action to prevent suicide.
  • This article from the VA Suicide Prevention Executive Director describes risk factors for veterans living in rural communities, and ways to create a safer environment.
  • Visit Make the Connection to watch videos and hear stories from veterans about how they confronted their issues and found solutions.
  • To learn how you can take an active role in suicide prevention, consider taking VA’s S.A.V.E. training. This online training session provides information about identifying warning signs for suicide and guidance for communication with at-risk veterans.
  • Another VA program that offers a way for volunteers to support veteran mental health in the long term is the Compassionate Contact Corps. This program pairs trained volunteers with veterans for virtual conversations that replace isolation with connection. Contact your VA to find out if this program is available in your area.

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