How to talk and write about Veteran suicide prevention

With the internet and personal devices making it easy for anyone to become a content creator, almost anyone can come across as an “expert.”

While it’s great that barriers are breaking down for those who can make and distribute content, communicators need to be aware they have a powerful medium to raise awareness and drive change—as well as spread misinformation. Such misinformation could prevent some people from talking about their challenges or accessing help.

If you write or talk about Veteran suicide through any online or physical media, it’s vital you understand the impact the words and data you choose to share can have on the Veterans and Veteran supporters who consume your content.

Know your audience

Most importantly, you should have a comprehensive understanding of your audience and who your content might reach. In most cases, this is more than just your direct audience and can include individuals who have experienced thoughts of suicide or lost someone to suicide. Pay attention to how your content might affect the people throughout the communities your content touches.

Know your intention

Another critical component to effective messaging about suicide is to fully understand your own intentions for creating the content. What type of effect are you looking for—raising awareness, sharing a call-to-action, sharing a story about lived experience, reporting on a death, or sharing data or research? Use this intention to guide your creative process and try not to lose focus or drift from your original purpose.

Suicide is complex and sometimes difficult to address, not only because of the sensitive nature of the topic, but because there are many nuances involved in communicating about it effectively.

Know your influence

If you have a platform and want to share content on the complex issue of Veteran suicide, make sure you’re prepared with facts and understand effective messaging best practices. Handled responsibly, these conversations have the ability to educate audiences, reduce barriers to accessing support and—ultimately—help save Veteran lives.

Know the facts about Veteran suicide prevention

Just like any other issue with a lot of nuances, there are several misconceptions about Veteran suicide that are shared regularly. Here are some facts:

• Fact: Suicide can be prevented, support is available, and hope is possible. Find suicide prevention resources at VeteransCrisisLine.net/LocalResources.
• Fact: Asking a Veteran if they’re considering suicide won’t increase their risk and could save their life. It can be a tough question, but it may help someone connect with the support they need. Learn how to talk with a Veteran in crisis at VeteransCrisisLine.net/CrisisConversationHandout.
• Fact: Anyone can help a Veteran in crisis. You don’t need special training to support a  Veteran facing challenges. It can be as simple as asking, “How are you doing?” or “What’s going on?” VA S.A.V.E. Training can help. Learn more at learn.psycharmor.org/courses/va-save.
• Fact: Veterans Crisis Line responders are trained to provide support no matter what you’re experiencing. The Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7: Dial 988 then Press 1, chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat, or text 838255. Find out more about the Veterans Crisis Line at VeteransCrisisLine.net/About.

Know how to present information about Veteran suicide

The following are recommendations for developing messages about Veteran suicide. When best practices are applied, messages can correct misconceptions, share hope and encourage help seeking among those at risk for suicide.

• Use appropriate language: Be informative and objective without being sensationalistic. Use the terms “died by suicide” or “killed himself/herself/themselves.” Avoid terms like “commit suicide,” “successful/unsuccessful suicide,” “completed or uncompleted suicide,” or “failed-suicide attempt.”
• Report on suicide as a public health issue: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is a leading cause of death among all Americans, not just Veterans. Use terms like “higher” or “increasing” to refer to differences in suicide rates. Avoid referring to suicide as an epidemic and terms such as “skyrockets” or “surges.”
• Include resources:
  • Don’t wait. Reach out.: Get support designed specifically for you. Family members or friends can find resources for the Veterans in your life.
  • KeepItSecure.net: Practice secure storage of firearms, medication and other lethal means, and learn how to identify and handle a suicide crisis.
  • VA Suicide Prevention: Explore suicide prevention resources to build networks of support among community-based organizations, Veterans Service Organizations, health care providers, and other members of your community that strengthen protective factors for Veterans.
  • Make the Connection: VA’s premier mental health literacy and anti-stigma website highlights Veterans’ real, inspiring stories of recovery and connects Veterans and their family members and friends with local resources. Make the Connection’s Mental Health Month campaign page can be found on its website.

For more information about best practices, visit VA’s resource on How to Communicate and Write About Veteran Suicide.