What if YOU had the ability to help prevent veteran suicide? Well, you do!
Stressful life events and big life transitions — like separating from the military — can be risk factors for suicide. In fact, some research indicates veterans are most vulnerable in the first three months following separation from military service. (1)
However, many factors also protect against suicide risk, including healthy relationships and support from loved ones, feeling connected to others, and feeling connected to community. As a friend or family member of a veteran or service member, you play an important role to prevent suicide by being there and showing you care.
Everyone is different, so it’s important to recognize the different types of support.
👂 PROCESSING:
Firstly, recognize and validate their feelings. Ask open-ended questions and let them speak. Offer a non-judgmental listening ear.
What this might look like: Checking in: “You mentioned you’re feeling kind of lost lately. What’s been going on?”
💡 PROBLEM SOLVING:
Oftentimes, challenging life circumstances can be contributing to a friend’s stress. If they are open to it, then offer tangible support to help alleviate some burdens.
What this might look like: Practical help: In particular, you could assist with daily tasks like grocery shopping, childcare, or errands to give them space to address their needs.
🌟 CONSTRUCTIVE DISTRACTION:
Choose a constructive activity to divert their attention away from the challenge at hand, and instead positively impact their mood.
What this might look like: “You mentioned you’re stressed. I know it doesn’t solve the problem, but maybe it would help to take your mind off of it for a bit. Do you want to go hiking tomorrow?”
💗 TAKE ACTION:
For example, help your veteran friend or family member find mental health care in their area.
What this might look like: Call Coaching Into Care to work with a trained advisor that will help you understand how to encourage a veteran to get the care they need, or direct them resources, such as Cohen Veterans Network, a not-for-profit that offers therapy for veterans, service members, and their families.
Shen, Y. C., J. M. Cunha, and T. V. Williams. 2016. Time-varying associations of suicide with deployments, mental health conditions, and stressful life events among current and former US military personnel: A retrospective multivariate analysis. Lancet Psychiatry 3, no. 11:1039–48