Suicide Prevention

Suicide among service members, veterans, and their families is a public health and national security crisis. Far too many of our nation’s veterans and service members have died at their own hands, an overwhelming majority of them as the result of a firearm. Since 2010, more than 65,000 veterans have died by suicide – more than the total number of deaths from combat during the Vietnam War and the operations in Iraq and Afghanistan combined. These women and men volunteered to serve their country, often in dangerous conditions. We owe them, their families, and their fellow service members and veterans a better, more coordinated response to address the military and veteran suicide crisis.

Suicide is a complex problem, with no single cause and no single solution. But it is preventable. Given the multiple factors that may lead to suicide, preventing suicide requires a comprehensive program of education and outreach to remind us that we are not alone. Together we can address veteran suicide and reduce the 22 suicides a day that plague our warfighter community.

Resources

Are you a Veteran in crisis or concerned about one?

Veterans Crisis Line: Text 838255 Call: 800-273-8255

24/7 confidential support for people in distress

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Call: 800-273-8255

Suicide Prevention Lifeline new 3-digit code 988

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Text: 988

Five Priorities for Reducing Military and Veteran Suicide

White House Briefing Room

Mental Health Concerns: Treatment Works

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

Awareness Events