Each of us has the opportunity to be that one person who makes a difference, who asks the question that can save a Veteran’s life.
The more we know about how to support people in crisis, the better prepared we can be to help prevent suicide. Research has shown that Veterans face an increased risk of suicide, so we must gain the knowledge and tools to act when a Veteran is in crisis or having thoughts of suicide.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides S.A.V.E. training, a free online or in-person course that teaches four important steps anyone can take to help prevent suicide. The S.A.V.E. method is not unique for veterans and can be used for anyone who is concerned about suicide.
What Is S.A.V.E.?
S.A.V.E. is a suicide prevention method that breaks down important steps we can take when we’re trying to help a person in crisis. Based on the material from the S.A.V.E. course, here is a breakdown:
S – Know the signs that indicate a Veteran might be thinking about suicide. Warning signs may include:
- Hopelessness, feeling like there’s no reason to live
- Anxiety, agitation, sleeplessness, mood swings
- Rage or anger
- Engaging in risky behaviors without thinking
- Increasing alcohol or drug use
- Withdrawing from family and friends
The signs below require immediate attention, including:
- When asked, they express a desire to hurt or kill themselves.
- When prompted, they reveal they’re looking for ways to die by suicide.
- They talk about death, dying or suicide.
- They begin to exhibit self-destructive behavior, such as increased drug or alcohol use, talking about obtaining or using weapons for self-harm, or saving up medication.
The more you know about the warning signs related to suicide, the better prepared you’ll be to recognize them and begin to help.
A – Ask the most important question of all: “Are you thinking of killing yourself?” Many people are afraid to ask this question or wonder if they’re planting the idea of suicide in someone’s head, but the answer is no. When you ask someone this question, you’re giving them permission to share their feelings, open up and become comfortable talking about suicide. Here are some things to consider when asking:
- Other ways to ask the question include “Are you thinking of suicide?” or “Have you had thoughts about taking your own life?”
- Ask the question in such a way that’s natural and flows with the conversation.
- Don’t ask the question as though you’re looking for a “no” answer, like “You’re not thinking of killing yourself, are you?”
- Don’t wait to ask the question until they’re halfway out the door.
V – Validate the Veteran’s experience. Let the Veteran do the talking to share their experience and what they may be feeling. Be willing to listen without passing judgment. Limit your questions and make supportive, hopeful comments. When you get a chance, remind the Veteran that you’re here to listen and that help is available.
E – Encourage treatment and expedite getting help. If a Veteran is showing or expressing thoughts of suicide, remain calm and assure them help is available. Here are some additional safety measures:
- Don’t keep their suicidal behavior a secret.
- Don’t leave them alone.
- Try to get the Veteran to seek immediate help from their doctor, the nearest hospital or the emergency room.
- Call 911.
- Never negotiate with someone who has a gun. Get to safety and call 911. If the Veteran has taken pills, cut themselves or has done harm in some way, call 911.
You can take the S.A.V.E. Training online or you can contact your local suicide prevention coordinator to schedule an in-person training. You don’t have to be enrolled in VA benefits or VA health care to take the training and the course should take less than an hour to complete.
What Additional Resources Are Available?
When Veterans have access to the right support before a crisis happens, lives can be saved. Check out the following suicide prevention resources and get the help you deserve:
- Veterans Crisis Line – Access 24/7 confidential crisis support. Dial 988 then press 1. Or text 838255 or chat online with qualified, compassionate responders. Remember the Crisis Line isn’t just for Veterans. Veterans’ families and friends can get connected with helpful resources too. Learn more about how the Veterans Crisis Line can help Veterans who are struggling.
- VA Mental Health Resources – VA has a wide range of mental health treatment options and a network of support for preventing suicide among Veterans, including evidence-based therapies, support groups, mobile apps and more.
- VA Keep It Secure Program – This program promotes awareness about the simple steps you can take to protect yourself and your family in the event of a suicide crisis. Steps include increasing the time and distance between a person in crisis and their access to lethal means like firearms and medication.
- Don’t wait. Reach out. Find support and resources designed specifically for Veterans facing difficult situations, including substance use, feelings of depression or isolation, money challenges and more. You can use their self-assessment tool to connect with resources tailored to your needs.
- Make the Connection – Hear from other Veterans as they discuss overcoming difficult mental health challenges and suicidal thoughts.
Just like the S.A.V.E. course description states – Each of us has the opportunity to be that one person who makes a difference, who asks the question that can save a Veteran’s life or the life of anyone struggling with thoughts of suicide. Using the simple steps of S.A.V.E., we can all make a difference.
Take the time. Make the time. Be there.®