In observance of Suicide Prevention Month, Battle Creek VA Medical Center (VAMC) is bringing awareness to its #BeThere campaign by encouraging community leaders, colleagues, and Veterans’ families and friends to help prevent suicide by showing support for those who may be going through a difficult time.

Suicide is a complex national public health issue that affects communities nationwide, with more than 45,000 Americans, including more than 6,000 Veterans, dying by suicide every year. But suicide is preventable. VA is using a community-driven approach to prevent suicide and finding innovative ways to deliver support and care to all 20 million U.S. Veterans whenever and wherever they need it.

The Battle Creek VA Medical Center is doing a variety of things throughout September to raise awareness for suicide prevention in particular Veteran Suicide Prevention:

September 10, 2019 (World Suicide Prevention Day): Table in Building 5 (Canteen store and food court) of Medical Center  from 11 a.m.-1:00 p.m. to engage Veterans and staff on raising awareness in their communities.

September 13, 2019: Mental Health Summit: 2019 VA Community Mental Health Summit - Strengthening Community Partnerships for Veterans Mental Health Care.  This will be held 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m. at Kalamazoo Valley Community College. 6767 West O Avenue, Kalamazoo, MI 49009.

September 21, 2019:  Alive and Running VA 5k Run/Walk.  This begins in the main parking lot of the medical center at 9:00 a.m.

“The Battle Creek VA Medical Center is working hard to end Veteran suicide and to deliver the best care possible for our nation’s heroes, but, we know that only about a third of Veterans come to VA for health care,” said James Doelling, Medical Center Director. “That’s why we need everyone in the community to be involved. This September, and all year, I encourage everyone to take a moment to be there for Veterans in need. One small act can make a big difference and may even save a life.” added Doelling.

You don’t need special training to prevent suicide. Everyone can play a role by learning to recognize warning signs, showing compassion and care to Veterans in need, and offering your support. Here are some actions anyone can take to #BeThere:

 Reach out to the Veterans in your life to show them you care. Send a check-in text, cook them dinner, or simply ask, “How are you?”

  • Watch the free A.V.E. training video to equip yourself to respond with care and compassion if someone you know indicates they are having thoughts of suicide.
  • Check out VA’s Social Media Safety Toolkit to learn how to recognize and respond to social media posts that may indicate emotional distress, feelings of crisis or thoughts of suicide.
  • Contact VA’s Coaching Into Care program if you are worried about a Veteran loved one. A licensed psychologist or social worker will provide guidance on motivating your loved one to seek support.

or having thoughts of suicide, and those who know a Veteran in crisis, can call the Veterans Crisis Line for confidential support available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1, text to 838255 or chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat.

 

 

More From WBCKFM