VA focuses national attention on Suicide Prevention Month

Collaborates with communities to help veterans access mental health support

WASHINGTON, D.C.— In recognition of September as Suicide Prevention Month, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is mobilizing people and organizations nationwide to support veterans in crisis and spread the word about VA mental health services.

Throughout the month, VA suicide prevention coordinators at all 151 VA medical centers will organize community events, host health fairs, lead training sessions and work with VA Voluntary Service to improve Veterans’ lives.  VA is also launching a new Suicide Prevention Month public service announcement, "Talking About It Matters" (Preview) nationwide in September.

 Anyone can support veterans by:

• Encouraging a veteran who needs help to call the Veterans Crisis Line. Remind them that it takes courage to seek help.
• Connecting with a local Suicide Prevention Coordinator and taking part in a local event.
• Watching the new Suicide Prevention Month public service announcement, "Talking About It Matters" (Preview)
• Downloading an electronic toolkit to share Suicide Prevention Month web badges, banners, blog posts and social media content.
• Sharing a photo at VeteransCrisisLine.net/ItMatters.
• Tweeting your friends and loved ones with the following message: “One small act can make the difference. This #SuicidePreventionMonth, help #Veterans access the support they’ve earned: VeteransCrisisLine.net.”

“VA’s highest priority is the mental health and well-being of the brave men and women who have served our Nation.  Even one suicide is one too many,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. “VA is a leader in providing high-quality mental health care that improves and saves Veterans’ lives.  We know that treatment works, and there is hope for Veterans who seek mental health care.”