Avera Includes Messaging for Veterans in Suicide Prevention Campaign

Veterans have defended our nation and our freedom as Americans. Many have willingly put themselves in harm's way. Yet when they are safely home from tours or stateside service, they may not feel safe from inner struggles.

The suicide rate among veterans is 34.7 per 100,000; over twice the rate of non-veteran U.S. adults of 14.2 per 100,000, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

National Suicide Prevention Month in September offers the opportunity for Avera and its leading behavioral health program to once again shine the spotlight on suicide prevention. This year's Ask the Question campaign focuses on all ages, including veterans as a special focus.

"Any number of experiences before, during or after military service can trigger a crisis for veterans," said Freddy Real, Military and Veteran Liaison Officer at Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center. Experiences including combat, high pressure situations, personal loss of friends and fellow service members, and the realities of transitioning out of service can create deeper heaviness. Real specializes in bridging the gap between military service and civilian life, ensuring that veterans receive the comprehensive care and support they deserve.

"What veterans may be feeling is a normal reaction to extraordinary circumstances," said Jeff Hurst, Avera Behavioral Health therapist.

"Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is not uncommon among veterans, although it's not something only combat veterans get," Hurst said. It can result from non-combat events or stressors experienced before, during or after military services. Its effects can be immediate or build over time.

Veterans are often hesitant to talk to anyone but a fellow veteran. "When talking about their experiences, veterans may be able to trust only someone who truly understands what they've gone through," Real said.

So fellow veterans are often in the best position to help. Yet close family members, workplace leaders or colleagues can also voice their concerns.

The award-winning Ask the Question campaign is built around a research-based premise that being direct can save lives. Asking someone who is struggling a direct question, "are you thinking about suicide?" in a caring way can open a meaningful conversation that leads to the person at risk to get help. Generous donations to the Avera Foundation fully fund Avera's award-winning Ask the Question campaign, which was started in 2022.

It's important for everyone to know the signs of suicide risk:

• Talking about wanting to die
• Feeling hopeless
• Having no reason to live
• Feeling like a burden to others
• Feeling trapped
• Unbearable pain

Behaviors that may signal risk include:

• Increased use of alcohol or drugs
• Withdrawing from activities or relationships
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Changing behavior or the presence of entirely new behaviors, especially when related to a major life event.
• Hearing resignation in their voice and saying things like "I don't care anymore" or "I'm done."

Through the Zero Suicide initiative, Avera has suicide screening and assessment tools for use at primary care and emergency visits.

The Ask the Question campaign takes these preventive efforts a step further by giving everyone tools and resources to help prevent suicides. This includes specialized resources for teens and veterans.

When you ask the question and someone says yes, ask more: "Can I talk more with you about those thoughts?" Be ready to listen and help them get the right level of help.

Using the word suicide won't give them ideas; instead it may give them relief. Be sure to express your care and concern and support say, "I'm proud of you for sharing your feelings."

Research shows that offering someone a safe place to open up about their thoughts and feelings can be an important step in getting them the help they need. It also shows them someone cares about their well-being.

"Ask the Question has been an important reset in our minds of how the sensitive topic can be brought up by a loved one when someone exhibits warning signs. Avera has developed a storehouse of patient education, talking points, messaging and creative materials that can be reused and updated in years to come as we continually strive to make a difference and save lives," said Lindsey Meyers, Avera Vice President for Communications, Public Relations and Community Engagement.

At Avera.org/AskTheQuestion, you can learn how to have a meaningful conversation about suicide, refer someone to helpful resources, and take other measures of prevention.