Suicide Prevention Month is observed during September to raise awareness of the issue of suicide and promote efforts to prevent it. The month-long observance works to increase awareness of the warning signs and risk factors for suicide, reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and seeking help, and promote access to resources and support. The significance of Suicide Prevention Month lies in its recognition of the devastating impact that suicide has on individuals, families, and communities, as well as the importance of taking action to prevent it. The month is marked by events and activities that educate the public about suicide prevention and provide resources and support for those who may be struggling.

Support is Available

The Be Connected Support Line, offered by the Arizona Coalition for Military Families, provides confidential, no-cost support to service members, veterans, and their family members. Call 866-4AZ-VETS (866-429-8387) to connect with a team ready to help you navigate the programs, services, and benefits available to you. If you are experiencing a life-threatening crisis, please contact 9-1-1, or for urgent mental health support, call 9-8-8 and press 1.

Here are some constructive ways you can contribute to suicide prevention efforts:

1. Take in facts about suicide. 

• • Veterans are at a higher risk for suicide.
  • Veterans have an adjusted suicide rate that is 52.3% greater than the non-veteran US adult population. Source: SAMHSA
  • People who have previously served in the military account for about 13.7% of suicides among adults in the United States. Source: VA
  • In 2019, 1.6% of former active-duty service members aged 18-25 years reported making a suicide attempt during the previous 12 months. This was an increase from 0.9% in 2009. Source: SAMHSA

2. Act with compassion. Seek to understand, and avoid making assumptions and judgments.

3. Learn to recognize concerning behaviors and signs of suicide.

4. Know what to do and how to seek assistance. 

• Call 9-1-1 if the situation is actively dangerous
• Call 9-8-8 for crisis support 24/7
• Share knowledge about The Brandon Act with service members.

5. Start a conversation and stay calm if someone you know exhibits concerning signs.

• Ask if the person is thinking about suicide.
• Be there. Don’t leave the person alone.
• Connect them to resources such as 9-8-8 or take them to the Emergency Room

Our Suicide Prevention Work

• Veteran Suicide Mortality Review Team
• Our VA Funded Suicide Prevention Work
• Understanding Veteran Suicide in Arizona
• Upstream Suicide Prevention