The American Legion has launched a new Suicide Prevention Web Center on its national website to provide veterans and their families with life-saving resources and programs during their time of transition and need. The center debuts at a time when suicide rates for U.S. veterans are among the highest – an estimated 20 veterans commit suicide every day.
The Legion’s online Suicide Prevention Web Center builds on several suicide-prevention initiatives launched in recent years by the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The center houses specific suicide-prevention data, statistics, programs and resources organized for veterans, families and the community.
Additionally, information on VA’s Crisis Hotline (800)-273-8255 (TALK), chat service and video testimonials from VA’s Make the Connection program are accessible from the website. The Make the Connection program includes personal stories of veterans who were at risk for suicide, received help, and now they encourage other veterans to come forward and receive proper treatment.
The web center also features events and programs nationwide that recognize September as Suicide Prevention Month. Throughout the month, suicide-prevention coordinators at all 152 VA medical centers are organizing community events, hosting health fairs, leading training sessions, and working with the VA Voluntary Service to improve veterans’ lives. VA is also launching a new nationwide Suicide Prevention Month public service announcement, "Talking About It Matters."
For questions about the new Suicide Prevention Web Center or American Legion veterans health-care programs and initiatives, please contact The American Legion’s Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Division at var@legion.org or by phone at (202) 861-2700.
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