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Suicide Prevention

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Are you concerned about a Veteran loved who has thoughts or behaviors related to suicide?

How family members can support a Veteran loved one in staying safe from suicide

Family members are often the first to know that a Veteran in their family is struggling

  • Thoughts of suicide may not be easily discussed at first. Hopeless statements, poor self-care, risky behavior and giving things away might be the first signs that family members notice.
  • Family members often have the most influence over the situation, but it is easy to prompt resistance when talking about sensitive topics, so it is hard to imagine that this is true.
  • You may have not been successful at previous conversations with you Veteran loved one, but taking a different approach can help.
  • Learning to listen rather than trying to give advice is one of the most important first steps.
  • If your relationship has a lot of conflict, it may be helpful to find another family member, friend, or battle buddy who may be interested in helping by talk to you Veteran loved one.
  • If you worry about the threat of violence in your relationship, seek domestic violence support.
  • Contact Coaching Into Care through email, CoachingIntoCare@va.gov, if you are a close family member, living with or near the Veteran, and would like to receive coaching about how to talk your Veteran about suicide risk.

Read Information About Specific Mental Health Topics

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