VA to host telephone SAVE suicide prevention training for caregivers of veterans

The John J. Pershing VA Medical Center in Poplar Bluff will offer a special telephone SAVE training for caregivers of veterans on Sept. 14 from 10-11 a.m.

“September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month,” said VA social worker and Caregiver Support Coordinator, Vicki Burns. “The acronym, ‘SAVE’ summarizes the steps needed to take an active role in suicide prevention: Signs of suicidal thinking, Ask questions, Validate the person’s experience, Encourage treatment/and Expedite help.”

“This is an educational event by telephone, offered in collaboration with VA’s Suicide Prevention Program,” Burns added.

The class is free of charge and open to any Veteran caregiver; dial-in information will be provided upon registration.

Participants are asked to register by Sept. 12, by contacting Burns at 573-778-4476.