This story discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
Honoring America’s veterans means more than an occasional look back at their military service. It means supporting those who are still fighting a fight that few others see.
Advocates are drawing attention to a national effort to end suicide among veterans. Our efforts are 24/7.
The Ad Council and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) are partnering on a campaign called “Don’t Wait. Reach Out.” that encourage veterans They can ask for help and be connected to the resources they deserve.
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The campaign urges struggling veterans to seek help for life’s challenges before they reach crisis point.
Suicide was the 12th leading cause of death among veterans in 2022, with an average of 17.6 deaths. Number of veteran suicides per dayaccording to the 2024 National Suicide Prevention Annual Report.
According to the Veterans Administration, an estimated 3.5 million veterans familiar with the operation have taken action to seek help in times of need.
“No mission should be fought alone. Life has its challenges. You don’t have to solve them alone, whether it’s an everyday struggle or something more complex,” the campaign’s website says.
For those struggling with suicidal thoughts: “Don’t wait. Reach out.” Visit VA.gov/REACH About today’s resources.
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U.S. Army veteran Aaron Knowles is also participating in the campaign and said it’s an honor to be involved in something so personal to veterans across the country.
“Speaking with those who feel unworthy of the title ‘veteran’ is a profoundly meaningful opportunity to remind them that they absolutely belong, that growth and friendships are still theirs, and that new missions and opportunities are always within reach,” Knowles said in a statement provided to Fox News Digital.
Heidi Arthur, chief campaign development officer at the Ad Council, told FOX News Digital that while the organization is seeing progress in preventing suicide among veterans, there is still more work to be done.
“We are committed to keeping this message front and center all year long. holiday “It’s especially difficult for many people, but the reality is that veterans can struggle at any time,” Arthur said.
It added: “The goal is to always encourage veterans to reach out when they face hardship, reminding them that their experiences are valid and that help is always within reach.”
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“Don’t Wait. Reach Out.” The campaign lists resources on money, career, education, relationships, and substance abuse issues.
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Resources to deal with feeling depressedisolation and PTSD are also shared.
Veterans may be experiencing sleep or fatigue issues, facing financial hardship, struggling with stress management, or being haunted by traumatic memories. use alcohol or drugs The campaign says they are struggling in unhealthy ways or in relationships.
The campaign noted that friends and family should “start the conversation” by sharing how they are feeling, reminding veterans that they care and are ready to listen.
Suggestions include things like, “I may not understand exactly what you’re going through or how you’re feeling, but I care about you and want to help you,” and “When you feel like giving up or feeling overwhelmed by emotions, think of things in small increments, like getting through the next minute, hour, or day. Do whatever you can manage.”
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The campaign advises friends and family not to argue, lecture, agree to confidentiality agreements or blame themselves.
For more information, anyone can look up the details. “Don’t wait. Reach out.”
