September is Suicide Prevention Month

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. Suicide is a public health issue and suicide prevention is a way to contribute to the overall health of our families, communities, and nation. We all have an essential role to play when it comes to suicide prevention.

The Be Connected support line is available to provide resource navigation and support at no cost to all Arizona service members (Active Duty, Guard & Reserves), veterans as well as their family members and caregivers. Be Connected’s support line services are offered at no cost and all calls are confidential. For crisis services, call 9-8-8 and press 1 or text to 838255.

Here are some constructive ways you can contribute to suicide prevention efforts and increase the health of the community:

• 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
  • Act with compassion. Seek to understand, and avoid making assumptions and judgments.
  • Learn to recognize concerning behaviors and signs of suicide.

• 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

• 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