Nobody is exempt from suicide or its devastating effects. Everybody knows somebody who needs hope.
OSPF is here to make sure those who need it get the help and support they need so that no more lives are lost to suicide.
Suicide among veterans is at a crisis level. Though we’ve come a long way in learning how to recognize the signs and what to do to help, we need to step up the effort to integrate suicide prevention practices within post-service culture, connect those in need to life-saving resources, and improve access to mental health care.
First responders are the first people to assist at the scenes of emergencies. They include law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, dispatchers, and 911 operators. Therefore, they face an increased risk of experiencing behavioral health issues, including mental illness. Fear of being seen as weak or not up to the job of a first responder keeps many from seeking help.
More and more young people are struggling and don’t want – or know how – to ask for help. Mental health issues such as anxiety and depression are contributing to the struggles, as are cultural pressures and norms. Supporting and empowering young people can make a difference, but we need more education about the warning signs of suicide prevention and more resources for peer-to-peer intervention.
Anyone can experience suicidal thoughts – no matter age, race, gender, socioeconomic status, or cultural background – yet some populations are more at risk than others. The Black and African American community is particularly at a higher risk, and the suicide rate has continued to increase when the rate for other populations has declined or remained the same.