National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

The Veterans Affairs (VA) website offers  resources to support suicide prevention. Visit www.mentalhealth.va.gov/suicide_prevention for information including warning signs; contacts like the Veterans Crisis Line and National Suicide Prevention Lifeline; how to locate a local Suicide Prevention Coordinator; and educational materials.

The Veterans Crisis Line can be reached by phone at 1-800-273-8255 or text – 838255. In addition, be sure to know the five signs of mental health suffering: personality change, agitation, withdrawal, poor self-care and hopelessness. See more ideas listed below. Learn more about how to address signs of emotional stress at the Campaign to Change Direction, changedirection.org.

VFW Auxiliary 257 would like to share these behavior signs that may mean someone is at risk for suicide. Risk is greater if a behavior is new or has increased and if it seems related to a painful event, loss, or change. Watch for these signs and help that person get assistance. Remember this number for one  source of help – the Veterans Crisis Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or suicidepreventionlifeline.org. The Lifeline is free, confidential, and always available.

Danger signs may include: talking about wanting to die or wanting to kill oneself.

Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live

Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.

Talking about being a burden to others.

Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.

Acting anxious or agitated or behaving recklessly.

Sleeping too much or too little.

Withdrawing or feeling isolated.

Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge

Displaying extreme mood swings.

Suicide is preventable! With help comes hope.