988 serves as a universal entry point so that no matter where you live in the United States, you can reach a trained crisis counselor who can help.

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.

A new Department of Defense policy recognizes the private nature of mental health care and is part of a larger DOD effort to reduce the stigma that is often associated with seeking help for mental health.

From our experts: Resources and advice for those left behind after a death by suicide

More than a million veterans, service members, and families have received help from the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline in its first year of existence.

The Department of Defense is committed to preventing suicide within our military by creating a supportive environment, improving delivery of mental health services, and reducing the stigma associated with asking for support.

While numerous programs work to develop strategies to lessen the national suicide rate, a standout in the military community is the Suicide Care, Prevention, and Research Initiative at the Uniformed Services University.

On Sept. 28, 2023, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin released a memo directing urgent actions to address suicide in the military community, building upon two years of significant work towards suicide prevention across the Department of Defense.

Brandon Act improves the process for service members seeking mental health support.

Resources on suicide prevention the entire military family can use.

The Army Substance Abuse Program is currently holding a virtual 5K walk or run to promote selfcare and highlight resources in support of Suicide Prevention Month. Community members can participate in the run from anywhere until Sept. 30, and will receive a swag bag upon completion while supplies last.

Suicide is a significant public health issue that impacts individuals, families, communities and society at large. The issue is also tied to what the U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vevek Murthy, called an “Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation” in a May health advisory that calls for a National Strategy to Advance Social Connection.

The Defense Department remains relentlessly committed to the health and welfare of the total force, Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks said today as she recognized the people behind DOD's suicide prevention efforts.

A U.S. Army public affairs officer highlights the importance of dogs in mental health while promoting "Dog Jog for Life," an event that embodies the spirit of suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention at U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz. “Our dogs often understand our moods better than we do ourselves. They offer us empathy, share in our ...