During Suicide Prevention Month, Rosecrance is highlighting a high-risk group that is often hesitant to seek help: Veterans.
The veteran suicide rate decreased significantly in 2019 and 2020, but it is still 57% higher among veterans than non-veteran adults, according to the most recent data from the 2022 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report.
Rosecrance proudly supports the Department of Veterans Affairs prioritization of preventing veteran suicide. Suicide is often viewed as an individual issue, but it actually has a profound impact on families, loved ones, and communities.
Suicide is preventable and anyone can help save a life. When it comes to preventing suicide among veterans, everyone is encouraged to be a part of the solution.
Check in with veterans and encourage them to reach out for help if needed. Some veterans may not show any visible signs of self-harm. However, there are certain indications of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, or hopelessness that some may exhibit, such as:
- Excessively sleeping or not sleeping at all
- Loss of interest in activities or responsibilities
- Expressing excessive guilt or shame, failure, lack of purpose, or feeling trapped
- Apathetic toward their appearance or wellbeing
- Isolating from friends, family, and society
“It’s important to remember that a single call can truly make a difference in someone’s life,” said Craig Riehle, LCSW, CADC, Rosecrance Admissions Director. “Whether it’s reaching out to check on a fellow service member or finding the necessary resources for support, that one call could be the turning point someone needs.”
Rosecrance is proud to support veteran’s behavioral health needs through the Veterans Affairs Community Care Network. Veterans seeking support in Illinois can call 815-222-7180. More information about support in Iowa is available by calling 712-870-9293.
Free, confidential help is available 24/7/365 to anyone who is struggling or in crisis. Call or text 988 to chat; American Sign Language callers can access a counselor by dialing 988 on a video phone. Veterans seeking support can call or text 988 and press 1.