This is starting a national conversation on veteran suicide since many celebrities are chiming in posting their videos on social media as seen here:[youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MNgOJ1NiU0Q&w=560&h=315]
What Can You Do?
One thing is to bring awareness, but another is identifying the problem and doing something about it. Many are donating money to 22 Kill since they help organizations and veterans that are going through difficult times. In addition to that you can also help volunteer at your local Veteran’s Office, since they are always looking for volunteers. If you know a veteran, don’t hesitate to ask them how they’re feeling because many times the signs are there, but most don’t know how to identify these signs and it could be simple things, such as:
- Trouble sleeping
- Isolating themselves, becoming loners
- Sense of hopelessness
- Thoughts of being a burden to others
- Talking about suicide (don’t take this lightly)
- Depressed, anxious, anger, or feelings of sadness
Many times people don’t know how to handle a situation like this or can’t fathom that their loved one is struggling with mental illness. Ask for help, talk to someone, talk to your doctor or start by calling the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which is a free hotline available 24 hours/7 days a week. You can also call the SAMHSA’s National Helpline which also offers 24 hour free and confidential treatment referral or the Veteran’s Crisis Line that also helps veterans in crisis.
