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Spread the Word to Veterans and Their Families

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One small act can make a difference in the life of a Veteran in crisis. I believe that we each have a responsibility to do everything we can to support our veterans and their families. Please join me this month in spreading the word to veterans and their families that they can confidential crisis support the Veterans Crisis Line anytime they need.

Every year, organizations across the country recognize September as Suicide Prevention Month. This year join the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), local and national organizations and individuals across the country in supporting The Power of 1: Show how one act can encourage Veterans, Service members, and their loved ones to seek confidential crisis support from the Veterans Crisis Line.

Whether it’s something as simple as striking up a conversation with a Veteran, or encouraging those on your social networks to support Veterans in your area, every little bit counts. Your actions could save a life.

Free, Confidential Crisis Support Anytime by Phone, Chat, or Text

The Veterans Crisis Line is a free, confidential crisis resource that Veterans and their families and friends can access any day, anytime. Trained responders — some of them Veterans themselves — are ready to listen, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

VA counts on grass-roots networks and community organizations to spread the word that support is just a call, click, or text away — because we’re all in this together, and one small act shows you care. 

Identifying Signs of Crisis

Sometimes, a crisis may involve thoughts of suicide. The following signs require 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.

If you notice any of these in a Veteran or Service member you know, connect him or her with the Veterans Crisis Line’s 24/7/365 resources: Call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1, chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/chat, or text to 838255.  

Spread the Word

During Suicide Prevention Month, be the reason a Veteran you know finds support during times of crisis. Take a minute today to show your support for Veterans and spread the word about the Veterans Crisis Line — because when we come together as a community to show we care and encourage our Veterans to reach out in times of crisis, we can save lives.

Visit VeteransCrisisLine.net/ThePowerOf1 to learn how you and others in your community can work together to prevent suicide. Download free Suicide Prevention Month materials, including flyers to print and distribute, digital ads to display on your website, and content to post on social networks or publish in newsletters or blogs.

It starts with one small act and takes just one minute to make a difference. Will you take part in The Power of 1?  

Visit VeteransCrisisLine.net to learn more.

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6 Comments

  1. Susan, I am so glad you shared this. I just watched a movie that showed how much PTSD can effect veterans. I know my Father had it when he returned from Vietnam, but at that time there was no understanding of it and no one knew how to help them. I think a Veterans Help Line is so important. Thanks for sharing this important information.

    1. Cynthia, I agree with you that it’s important that we let all veterans know about this resource. So many veterans and their families need support but don’t always know who is available to help.

  2. Such a good cause. We can’t forget all that these veterans have sacrificed for each of us. We MUST help them and help them take care of their families!

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