September Toolkit

The Department of Defense (DoD) is committed to preventing suicide among Service members and their families. Suicide prevention is a DoD priority throughout the year, but during September — Suicide Prevention Month — the Department brings added attention to this complex issue. This year, the DoD’s Suicide Prevention Month theme, Connectedness, highlights the important role that connections to family, friends, the community, and resources can play in preventing suicide. As part of the conversation this month, the Military Health System will also look at ways to be proactive and mindful in tackling pain challenges, including the need for opioid safety.

To enable others to share information within the DoD community, our Monthly Communications Toolkit provides the MHS enterprise with customizable, ready-to-use material to promote these topics and other issues important to the health and wellness of the DoD community. 

Pain Awareness Month

September is also Pain Awareness Month, during which the MHS will highlight the need to work with a healthcare provider to help identify what’s most effective in treating your pain and providing relief. Patients and providers can learn about pain treatments, opioid safety, and other useful resources here: https://go.usa.gov/xf5ks

No one can avoid experiencing pain at some point in their life. It's a universal experience. Depending upon how severe the pain is, how long the pain lasts, and how the pain is managed, it can have a significant impact on an individual, their family, and friends. Watch this video to learn more about how to work with a doctor to safely and effectively manage pain.