Military life can be stressful for service members and their families. Everyone reacts to stress and traumatic experiences differently, and some may feel angry or isolated. These reactions can be common responses to life events, but, for some, these feelings may be signs of more serious conditions, including depression, traumatic brain injury or post-traumatic stress disorder. People coping with these concerns may feel like there is no escape from their symptoms, leading them to have thoughts of suicide. Deaths as a result of suicide are a preventable public health concern and a top priority for the Department of Defense (DoD).
The Military Health System (MHS) works with military and civilian organizations to:
- Build awareness of suicidal behavior and risks, and
- Help service members and their families cope.
We also promote programs that instill the skills needed to manage life’s challenges and encourage those with suicidal thoughts to seek help.
You also may be interested in...
Article
4/10/2020
In response to an increased volume of calls to the Veterans Crisis Line (VCL) since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), inTransition is partnering with the VCL to coordinate certain types of care for active duty service members.
Recommended Content:
Coronavirus | Mental Health Care | Suicide Prevention | September Toolkit
Congressional Testimony
12/4/2019
Dr. Karin A. Orvis Director, Defense Suicide Prevention Office, Office of the Under Secretary of Defense (Personnel and Readiness) and Mike Colston, MD Captain, Medical Corps, US Navy Director, Mental Health Programs Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Health Affairs) [testified] before the Personnel Subcommittee of Senate Armed Forces Committee
Recommended Content:
Suicide Prevention | September Toolkit
Article
9/18/2019
The ultimate goal is to not get to a crisis situation – it’s to prevent suicide by building resilience
Recommended Content:
Suicide Prevention | September Toolkit
Article
9/6/2019
Two Airmen from the 21st Operational Medical Readiness Squadron dental lab, successfully responded to a friend from another Air Force base with suicidal thoughts.
Recommended Content:
Suicide Prevention | September Toolkit
Congressional Testimony
5/21/2019
Elizabeth P. Van Winkle, PhD Executive Director Office of Force Resiliency Office of the Under Secretary of Defense (Personnel and Readiness) and Mike Colston, MD Captain, Medical Corps, US Navy Director, Mental Health Programs Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Health Affairs) [testified] before The House Armed Services Subcommittee on Military Personnel And The House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health
Recommended Content:
Suicide Prevention | September Toolkit
Showing results 1 - 15
Page 1 of 4