Across the globe, Sept. is recognized as Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month. It gives a chance for survivors to share their stories and for the public to work toward removing the stigma surrounding the topic. One group of people disproportionately affected by suicide is our veterans, who have sacrificed so much to protect our country. Because of this, Castle Country Radio sat down with Heidi Arthur, the chief campaign development officer for the Ad Council to talk about veterans’ mental health as well as resources that are available to help.
Opening our conversation, Arthur discussed some of the struggles that veterans may face while trying to reintegrate into civilian life. “ They’re not that dissimilar from stressors that many people face in our country, but being a veteran creates a unique set of circumstances. Transitioning out of active duty can be very stressful for many service members who have just left the military, and research indicates that these times of adjustment also increase the risk of suicide and may involve difficult situations.” Arthur continued,” These include obstacles such as dealing with physical health issues, career growth and obstacles, financial struggles, problems with relationships and more.”
Arthur continued on the importance of reaching out to veterans who may be struggling with their mental health. “The good news is suicide is preventable and there is hope and there’s a host of resources that are designed to address certain emotions and feelings that you might be experiencing or the life struggles that you’re currently facing.” Arthur explained,” if you go to va.gov/reach, everything’s organized in a way that is easy to navigate where veterans and their family and friends can find resources, ways to help yourself and other services that may help you with the struggles that you’re facing.”
“ There are resources related to circumstances.” Stated Arthur regarding the specific resources available through the site,” If you’re finding yourself with a career transition, there’s career counseling. Some resources are designed to help with job placement if you’re having a relationship issue, understanding what to do, what to say and how to navigate it. And then, of course, if you’re experiencing real mental health struggles, understanding signs, symptoms, and access to resources through the Department of Veterans Affairs”
The last topic we discussed was how everyone can help be a part of the solution,” veterans are often the first to help others, but sometimes it can be hard for them to ask for help or to accept it for themselves. People close to Veterans are often the first to notice when they might be struggling, so letting a veteran know that you’re there for them can help start a conversation.
And if you don’t know a Veteran, you can show your support for the issue on our site, va.gov/reach. We have social media content easily usable by anybody to post in your social channels showing how much you care and support veterans.”
For those struggling with thoughts of suicide, the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline can be reached by dialing 988 any time for support. Resources are also available at utahsuicideprevention.org.