In observance of Veterans Day today, November 11, join us in our efforts to fight suicide and raise mental health awareness among Veterans, Service members, and their families.
At the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, we know that suicide is a leading cause of death among Veterans. But we also know from research that suicide is often preventable.
While there is no single cause of suicide among Veterans and Service members, we can help save lives by treating and preventing mental health and substance use conditions, addressing access to lethal means, and empowering Veterans and Service members to live and thrive in their communities.
The following resources can help you learn more about the specific considerations surrounding suicide and mental health among Veterans –– and how you can seek or offer support:
- Visit our Public Policy Action Center to learn how you can take direct action to prevent suicide among Veterans and their families.
- Watch"Preventing Veteran Suicide: Advocacy, Policies, and How You Can Help." In this webinar recording, AFSP Senior Manager of Federal Policy Bill White is joined by AFSP National Public Policy Council member and Veteran Ian Perry of Michigan for a discussion about federal programs to increase access to military suicide prevention and mental health resources for Veterans, service members, and their families.
- Visit our "Military and Veteran suicide prevention" webpage to learn more about the issue, and to use and share our list of mental health and suicide prevention resources focused on supporting Veterans and Service members.
Read our blog article, "As a Veteran, I Know the Importance of Suicide Prevention Efforts," written by combat Veteran and AFSP Michigan Chapter volunteer Ian Perry.
This Veterans Day, we encourage you to learn more and take action. No matter who you are, you are not alone. If you need help call 988 the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
- Scott Stevens is a member of the state board of directors for the Virginia Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.