Being prepared for a suicide crisis

Just like any other emergency, you need to be prepared for a suicide crisis before it starts. VA offers a range of programs, initiatives and a network of support to ensure you have the resources you need.

Use an app to help you stay safe during a crisis

VA’s Safety Plan app helps you create a custom step-by-step action plan to keep yourself safe when experiencing thoughts about suicide or self-harm. The app helps you identify personal coping strategies and sources of support, giving thoughts of suicide time to decrease and become more manageable. Once you create your safety plan, you can identify your reasons to live and explore more tools to help you cope.

Get immediate access to crisis support

If you’re a Veteran in crisis or concerned about one, contact the Veterans Crisis Line to receive 24/7 confidential support. You don’t have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to connect.

To reach responders, Dial 988 then Press 1, chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat, or text 838255. For more information about the Veterans Crisis Line, visit the Veterans Crisis Line webpage.

Recognize the signs of crisis

At some point, everyone will face a challenge. Some of those challenges may develop into a crisis. Recognizing a crisis in yourself or a Veteran you care about can help you know when to find support.

Crisis signs

These signs require immediate attention. If you’re experiencing any of these and need medical attention, call 911 now. For immediate help in dealing with a suicide crisis, contact the Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 then Press 1.

• Thinking about hurting or killing yourself immediately.
• Looking for ways to kill yourself right now.
• Talking about death, dying, or suicide in an immediate sense.
• Self-destructive behavior, such as drug abuse, risky use of weapons, etc.

Warning signs

These signs may indicate that someone needs help. If you or a Veteran you know is experiencing any of these, contact the Veterans Crisis Line now: Dial 988 then Press 1.

• Appearing sad or depressed most of the time.
• Hopelessness.
• Anxiety, agitation, sleeplessness or mood swings.
• Feeling as if there is no reason to live.
• Feeling excessive guilt, shame or sense of failure.
• Rage or anger.
• Engaging in risky activities without thinking.
• Increasing alcohol or drug misuse.
• Losing interest in hobbies, work or school.
• Neglecting personal welfare and appearance.
• Withdrawing from family and friends.
• Showing violent behavior, like punching a hole in the wall or getting into fights.
• Giving away prized possessions.
• Getting affairs in order, tying up loose ends or writing a will.

Take crisis support training

VA S.A.V.E. Training is designed to teach anyone who interacts with Veterans how to recognize warning signs of crisis and what to do to help a Veteran who may be at risk.

The acronym S.A.V.E. helps you remember the important steps involved in suicide prevention: 

• Signs of suicidal thinking should be recognized.
• Ask the most important question of all—Are you thinking of killing yourself?
• Validate the Veteran’s experience.
• Encourage treatment and expedite getting help.

Stay safe with secure storage practices

Increasing the time and distance between a person in a suicide crisis and their access to lethal means—like guns, medications, alcohol, opioids, ropes, cords or sharp objects—can reduce suicide risk and save lives. VA’s Keep It Secure program promotes awareness about the simple steps you can take to protect yourself and your family. 

Stay safe and healthy this summer by thinking ahead and becoming familiar with the resources VA offers. One of the keys to getting through a suicide crisis is being prepared.