PENNSYLVANIA, USA — The Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) has been voicing the importance of reaching out to veterans and reminding them that people care about their well-being as September begins.
September is National Suicide Prevention Month and veterans are at an elevated risk of suicide. Veterans are 1.5 times more likely to die by suicide, and female veterans are 2.2 times more likely compared to Americans who never served in the military, according to the DMVA.
“Veterans, especially those in crisis, should never be alone,” said Maj. Gen. Mark Schindler, Pennsylvania’s adjutant general and head of the DMVA in a press release. “Small gestures like a phone call, text, email, or quick visit can go a long way in reassuring veterans that they matter. Too many veterans die by suicide. We can all play a role in reducing that number by reaching out to a veteran in need.”
The DMVA is encouraging people to light a candle at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 10, to recognize World Suicide Prevention Day.
“A small gesture like lighting a candle on World Suicide Prevention Day sends a big message to veterans in crisis,” said Schindler. “Together, we should all be committed to reaching out to veterans – not just on Sept. 10, but all year long. It is the least we can do for those who selflessly served and sacrificed on our behalf.”
The Governor's Challenge, created by The Veterans Association (VA) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is a program that leads efforts like gun safety, eliminating barriers to treatment and raising awareness of available local, statewide and federal resources.
The Pennsylvania Govenor's Challenge, led by the DMVA, works with sister agencies and departments, several educational institutions and groups of not-for-profit and faith-based organizations to develop and take action in statewide and regional suicide prevention best practices.
The DMVA also has an outreach program, PA VETConnect, that provides services in homelessness, employment, mental health and addiction to communities where veterans live.
A veteran in crisis, or someone concerned about a veteran, can find free, confidential support 24/7 at the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and then pressing 1, sending a text message to 838255, or chatting online here.
