Suicide Prevention

Military service members’ lives are generally very different from the lives of civilians. Service members may be subject to frequent relocations, overseas deployments, and stressful experiences related to combat and significant time away from their families. Everyone reacts to stress and traumatic experiences differently, and while some have reactions that can be seen as normal responses to life events, others may experience signs or symptoms of more serious conditions, including depression, traumatic brain injury, or posttraumatic stress disorder. Those coping with more serious concerns may feel like there is no escape from their difficulties.

Suicide is a serious public health concern, but is preventable. 

Reach Out for Support

You are not alone. If you or a loved one needs immediate help, there are resources available to you.

Military Crisis Line Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Psychological Health Resource Center

24/7, free support for all service members and veterans.

24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress.

24/7 support and assistance for service members, veterans and families.

To get help from the Military and Veterans Crisis Line outside the continental U.S. call:

NORTHCOM:

  • Dial 988 then Press 1

EUCOM:

  • Call +1 844-702-5495 (off base)
  • DSN 988 (on base)

AFRICOM:

  • Call +1 888-482-6054 (off base)
  • DSN 988 (on base)

PACOM:

  • Call +1 844-702-5493 (off base)
  • DSN 988 (on base)

CENTCOM:

  • Call +1 855-422-7719 (off base)
  • DSN 988 (on base)

SOUTHCOM:

  • Call +1 866-989-9599 (off base)
  • DSN 988 (on base)

Recognize the Signs of Those at Risk

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, there may be cause for concern. Seek professional guidance right away if you or your loved one, co-worker or friend is:

  • Thinking about hurting or killing yourself/themselves or others
  • Experiencing excessive rage, anger, or desire for revenge
  • Seeking access to pills, weapons, or other means of harm
  • Having feelings of anxiety, agitation, or hopelessness
  • Talking or writing excessively about death, dying, or suicide
  • Repeatedly reliving past stressful experiences
  • Unable to sleep or sleeping all the time
  • Experiencing uncharacteristic dramatic changes in mood or behavior
  • Withdrawing from friends, family, or society
  • Feeling there is no reason for living
  • Engaging in significant alcohol or drug use
  • Feeling trapped, like there is no way out
  • Engaging in risky behavior, such as driving recklessly

You also may be interested in...

Article
Aug. 9, 2024

Uniformed Services University Center for Deployment Psychology Awarded Top Prize for Virtual Suicide Prevention Learning Tool

Virtual learning tool start screen

The Center for Deployment Psychology at the Uniformed Services University was awarded the Gold Medal for Healthcare Games at the recent International Serious Play Awards in Toronto, Canada. The conference offered an opportunity for researchers, educators, and game developers to grow their skills in game-based learning.

Recommended Content Suicide Prevention Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences
Article
Jan. 12, 2024

Love, Death, and Regrowth

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Alex Briley, a perianesthesia technician assigned to the 673d Surgical Operations Squadron, poses for a portrait at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska. Briley uses her personal experiences to help advocate for improved mental health, suicide awareness, and resilience amongst service members. (Photo by U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Patrick Sullivan)

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Alex Briley met the love of her life shortly after arriving at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, her first duty station. After her husband died by suicide, her path to wellness wasn’t a quick or easy one, but she was able to find support in the people and resources around her.

Recommended Content MHS Mental Health Hub Suicide Prevention