With veteran suicide still a major concern among military circles, the Veterans Affairs’ Eastern Kansas Division says it’s ready to help.
Nationally, a person dies by suicide every 11 minutes — but VA Dr. Sarah Menager says the risk for male veterans is about 1.5 times higher than the national number and the risk for female veterans is about 2.5 times higher than the national figure. Close to 17 veterans and one active service member now die by suicide daily, so addressing suicide risk is a top priority for the VA. She also says it’s important for the VA to be proactive instead of waiting for veterans to reach out for help.
Dr. Menager says the VA is encouraging veterans to check in with fellow vets just to see how they are doing. The VA is also encouraging people to be “gatekeepers,” actively working to get veterans the help they may need.
Dr. Menager says there are several trigger points for suicidal ideation that affect both veterans and civilians, including divorce, loss of job, housing issues and substance issues. Depression and PTSD increases the risk of suicide attempts.
The VA has started work through the Compact Act, which means every veteran in a suicidal crisis can walk into any emergency room — VA or otherwise — say they are considering suicide and receive emergency care. The VA then either provides the treatment or covers the costs for treatment, including transportation, inpatient or crisis residential care for up to 30 days and outpatient care for up to 90 days. The VA also provides medication services and therapy services for veterans at risk.
Civilians and veterans needing help can also call 988.
