The John J. Pershing VA Medical Center will hold a community suicide prevention awareness candlelight vigil Thursday, Sept. 26, beginning at 6 p.m.
“We want to provide information, resources, and support to our veterans and their advocates,” said VA Suicide Prevention Program Coordinator Jennifer Becking. “The candle lighting service is always a powerful reminder of the importance of suicide prevention awareness.”
The event will include a veteran’s personal story, on-site mental health professionals, information tables for those who want to know more about the signs of suicidal thoughts, and light refreshments, along with a special ceremony in which participants will light candles for suicide prevention awareness. Anyone is welcome to attend.
#BeThere Campaign Seeks to Increase Support, Understanding
“To recognize Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, we want people to know about our #BeThere campaign, to encourage community leaders, colleagues, and veterans’ families and friends to help prevent suicide by showing support for those who may be going through a difficult time,” said Becking. “The ‘BeThereForVeterans.com’ website is a great place for them to begin.”
Becking explained that suicide is a complex national public health issue that affects communities nationwide, stating more than 45,000 Americans, including more than 6,000 veterans, die by suicide every year.
“But suicide is preventable,” Becking continued. “VA is using a community-driven approach to prevent suicide and finding innovative ways to deliver support and care to all 20 million U.S. veterans whenever and wherever they need it.”
“The John J. Pershing VA Medical Center is working hard to end veteran suicide, but we know that only about a third of veterans come to VA for health care,” said Interim Medical Center Director Desmond McMullan. “That’s why we need everyone in the community to get involved. This September, and all year, I encourage everyone to take a moment to be there for veterans in need. One act of thoughtfulness can make a big difference and may even save a life.”
“You don’t need special training to prevent suicide,” said Becking. “Everyone can play a role by learning to recognize warning signs, showing compassion and care, and offering support.”
Becking explained that warning signs can include:
• Appearing sad or depressed most of the time
• Showing violent behavior
• Giving away prized possessions
• Anxiety, agitation, sleeplessness or mood swings
• Feeling excessive guilt, shame, hopelessness, or sense of failure
• Neglecting personal welfare; deteriorating physical appearance
• Withdrawing from family and friends
• Increasing alcohol or drug misuse
• Lost interest in hobbies, work, or school
“Thinking or talking about hurting or killing yourself, talking about death, dying or suicide, or looking for ways to kill yourself are signs that require immediate attention,” said Becking.
Veterans who are in crisis or having thoughts of suicide, and those who know a veteran in crisis, can call the Veterans Crisis Line for confidential support available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1, text to 838255 or chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat.