Recognizing the Risk: Suicide Prevention Month

September is Suicide Prevention Month. At VAcareers, we’ll be raising awareness for mental health and suicide prevention in the Veteran community with new posts every Tuesday. Do you have a story to share? Let us know in the comments.

If you’re a Veteran in crisis or know a Veteran who is, click here or call 1-800-273-8255 and press 1.

Tomorrow, September 10^th, is World Suicide Prevention Day. During the entire month of September, the Department of Veterans Affairs and organizations nationwide are spreading the message that one small act can make a difference in the life of a Veteran or service member in crisis.

People experience emotional and mental health crises in response to a wide range of situations. For Veterans, these crises can be heightened by their experiences during military service. Do you feel comfortable recognizing signs of crisis? Warning signs include:

• Hopelessness, feeling like there’s no way out
• Anxiety, agitation, sleeplessness, or mood swings
• Feeling like there’s no reason to live
• Rage or anger
• Engaging in risky activities without thinking
• Increasing alcohol or drug abuse
• Withdrawing from family and friends

The presence of the following signs requires immediate attention:

• Thinking about hurting or killing yourself
• Looking for ways to kill yourself
• Talking about death, dying or suicide
• Self-destructive behavior such as drug abuse, weapons, etc.

Click the image to create your own inspirational image with the Veterans Crisis Line graphic generator.

If you notice these warning signs, tell a Veteran about the Veterans Crisis Line, or make the call yourself. Call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1, chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat, or text to 838255 for free, confidential support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

If you are a mental health professional with a passion for serving Veterans, please visit VAcareers.va.gov to learn more and apply.