New videos showcase choices, National Guard, Reserve

Two new public service announcements show choices like picking up the phone may lighten someone’s load and the unique role of the National Guard and Reserve.

The PSAs from VA show support for Veterans who may be experiencing difficulties in life comes in many forms.

The “Decisions” PSA showcases the importance of the small choices we make every day. It highlights the idea that a friend taking even a small step to Be There can have a big effect. It also shows that Veterans have the strength to reach out for support — whether by calling the Veterans Crisis Line or simply connecting with a pal.

The “National Guard and Reserve” PSA emphasizes the unique role that National Guard and Reserve members have in safeguarding the country, often in crisis situations. This PSA shows the difficult situations in which they have served and reminds them that VA has resources to support them.

The videos are shareable on social media and web pages. They are also available on the Veterans Crisis Line Resource page at https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/support/video-and-radio.

As the PSAs show: Even small actions can help you #BeThere for Veterans.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, contact the Veterans Crisis Line to receive free, confidential support and crisis intervention available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1, text to 838255, or chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat.

Reporters covering this issue can download VA’s Safe Messaging Best Practices fact sheet or visit ReportingOnSuicide.org for important guidance on how to communicate about suicide.

Dr. Matt Miller is the Acting Director, Suicide Prevention, in VA’s Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention.