Veteran Suicide Prevention Resources

Veteran Suicide Resources & Support

Suicide is one of the top causes of death in the United States and an urgent challenge facing the military community.

About 17 veterans die by suicide each day in the United States, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs.

There is no single solution to ending veteran suicide. It takes collaboration and support that build connection, foster resilience, and promote well-being long before a veteran reaches a crisis.

This topic may feel heavy, but change is possible. Progress requires sustained commitment and a willingness to pursue every possible approach.

If you or someone you know needs help, get free and confidential support 24/7.

Call or Text 988
Chat online at chat 988lifeline.org/

Additional emergency resources for veterans.

Facts About Veteran Suicide

Veteran Suicide FAQs

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) says about 17 veterans die by suicide every day in the U.S.

For the past 20 years, the number of suicides has increased. This is especially true for military veterans. VA says that in 2022, veterans died by suicide more than twice as much as people who were not veterans.

In 2022, male veterans died by suicide 44% more than nonveteran men. Female veterans died by suicide 92% more than nonveteran women.

Suicide is the 12th leading cause of death for all veterans. For those under age 45, it is the second-highest cause of death.

Suicide is a complex problem with no single cause. Risk factors do not cause suicide, but they can make a person more vulnerable. The National Veteran Suicide Prevention 2024 Annual Report says the most common risk factors for veteran suicide include:

Pain.
Sleep problems.
Increased health problems.
Declines in physical ability.
Relationship problems.
Hopelessness.
Impulsivity.
Guns in the home that are not locked up.

WWP’s research shows that certain factors can lower the risk of suicidal thoughts:

Strong relationships with family, friends, and community.
Sense of purpose and identity beyond military service.
Feeling like they belong and are connected to others.
Access to timely, culturally competent care.
Safe environments, including planning around lethal means.
Chances to grow and help others.
Mental resilience.
Quality sleep.
Financial stability and ability to meet basic needs.

Warning Signs of Suicide

Knowing the warning signs of suicide is an important part of helping prevent it.

Warning signs can be vague and vary from person to person. It is important to remember that what may be a warning sign for one person may not be a cause for concern in another person.

Signs of Suicidal Thoughts

Suicidal thoughts can be hard to spot, but there are common signs. These may involve changes in how a person acts, how they look, how they feel, or what they say.

How to Ask About Suicidal Thoughts

Talking about suicide can feel uncomfortable, but starting the conversation can save a life.

Ask directly: “Are you thinking about suicide?”
Stay calm and be present: Let the person talk without judgment. Focus on listening and holding space for conversation.
Show support: Let them know they are not alone and that you care about what they’re going through. A caring response often means more than the right words.
Help connect them to resources: Ask if they would like help reaching out to trusted people or professional support.
Act in an emergency: If there is immediate danger or a suicide attempt has occurred, get emergency support assistance right away.

Remember, don’t be afraid to ask. Breaking the silence and talking openly about suicide is a powerful step toward reducing shame and helping veterans feel safe to seek help.

But if I talk about suicide, won't it put the idea in someone's head?

No. In fact, asking can help.
It shows you care and gives the person a chance to talk about what they're going through. It can help reduce shame and make it easier to ask for help.

Supportive language can make a difference.

Phrases you can say:

"Thank you for telling me."
"I'm glad you shared this with me."
"I may not have all the answers, but I am here for you. You are not alone."
“It seems like things have been difficult for you."
"How can I support you right now?"
"Let's find help together."

How to Respond When Someone Says 'Yes'

If someone tells you they are thinking about suicide, you do not need to have all the answers. What matters most is staying calm and helping them feel supported.

Acknowledge their courage: Opening up about suicidal thoughts can be incredibly difficult. Thank them for sharing with you.
Listen without judgment: Let them share what they're going through. Give them your full attention, set aside distractions, and create space for an open conversation. Avoid minimizing their feelings, comparing their situation to your own, looking for a silver lining, or giving advice. People are more likely to keep talking when they feel heard.
Offer support, not solutions: You do not need to be a counselor or have all the answers. Resist the urge to problem solve. Your role is to listen, care, and remind them they are not alone.
Focus on safety: Ask how you can support them in the moment and help them think through their immediate next steps to develop a long-term safety plan. If there is immediate danger, get emergency assistance right away.
Help connect them to additional support: Offer to help them connect with a trusted friend, family member, mental health professional, or other source of support.
Take care of yourself, too: Supporting someone through a difficult conversation can be emotionally demanding. Reach out to trusted people in your own support network if you need to process the experience afterward.

Remember, talking about suicide can feel uncomfortable, but talking about it can help save a life.

Warrior Voices

Healing and hope can come from unexpected places. Sometimes, one connection, one purpose, or one source of support can change everything. These warriors share what helped them find hope again.

Share your story and show your support to end veteran suicide

Support Resources for Veterans

Learning about the resources available helps veterans and their loved ones find and connect to the services they need.

Emergency Help

Veterans Crisis Line – 988, Press 1 or text “HELP” to 838255
Crisis Text Line – Text “HOME” to 741741
911 or local emergency services
Centerstone's Military Services
Vets4Warriors

Support Services

Educational Materials

Building Awareness

Connection Saves Lives

Connection is one of the most powerful tools we have to prevent suicide. The Wounded Warrior Project Connection Saves Lives campaign raises awareness about the importance of community, belonging, and peer support. When veterans feel seen and heard, they are more likely to seek help.

A simple check-in can save a life.

Open Up: A Veteran Mental Health PSA

For many veterans, the hardest battles aren’t always visible, and too often, they’re fought in silence. In this powerful message from Wounded Warrior Project, a simple question at the dinner table becomes a turning point. It’s a reminder that no one should have to carry the weight alone. Connection heals. And sometimes, it starts with opening up. Wounded Warrior Project provides free mental health programs, personalized support, and resources for veterans and their families helping warriors build resilience, find connection, and take steps toward a better tomorrow. If you or a veteran you know is struggling, you’re not alone. Help is here. Open up. Reach out.

Learn more and find resources.

How WWP Supports Veteran Suicide Prevention

WWP protects veterans’ futures by helping reduce suicide risk and teaching others how to help prevent it.

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Suicide
Prevention

Veteran Suicide Resources & Support

Table of Contents

Facts About Veteran Suicide

Veteran Suicide FAQs