It takes a community to prevent veteran suicide
Did you know of the 20 veterans who die by suicide each day, 14 were not under VA care? That’s 14 missed opportunities to save lives, but it doesn’t have to continue that way. By committing to be there as individuals and a community for veterans in crisis, each of us can be the difference that saves lives.
You don’t need special training to be that lifesaving difference. Simple acts, like sending an encouraging text or sharing a coffee break, are ways to let veterans know you care about them. Often, just listening can make all the difference to a person who is experiencing thoughts of hopelessness or suicide.
Other ways you can make a difference is by knowing who to contact for help. Veterans, their families and friends can call the toll-free Veterans Crisis Line anytime at 1-800-273-8255, Press 1; text 838255; or chat online at veteranscrisisline.net. The crisis line is staffed 24/7 by qualified, compassionate VA responders who can provide guidance on connecting at-risk veterans with local support and resources to keep them from harm.
Another resource is VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System’s suicide prevention team. The suicide prevention team’s licensed clinical social workers work with VA Pittsburgh’s behavioral health providers and community organizations to assist Veterans during times of crisis and ensure veterans receive the health care and support they need. Veterans, their families and friends can reach VA Pittsburgh’s suicide prevention team between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. weekdays at 412-360-6515.
Veterans who are having thoughts of suicide can visit VA Pittsburgh’s Emergency Department in Oakland at the University Drive campus anytime for help. A walk-in Behavioral Health Clinic is open to veterans in crisis 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at the University Drive campus, no appointment required. Veterans in crisis can also visit any of VA Pittsburgh’s outpatient clinics in Beaver, Fayette, Washington and Westmoreland counties in Pennsylvania and Belmont County, Ohio, during business hours for help.
You can also make sure the veterans in your life are aware of any benefits they may have earned from their military service, including health care. Veterans can check their eligibility for health care at www.va.gov anytime or call VA Pittsburgh’s admissions office 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays at 412-360-6993.
Working together, we can make a difference. Will you help?
Barbara Forsha is interim director of the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System