DCoE News - Veterans Suicide Seminar Sends Message: Speak Up and Reach Out
Defense Centers of Excellence sent this bulletin at 09/19/2011 02:50 PM EDTVeterans Suicide Seminar Sends Message: Speak Up and Reach Out
09/19/2011
“I hope to get some information to help me with depression and suicidal thoughts.”
- Vincent C. Lewis, patient at Psychosocial Rehabilitation and Recovery Center
Vincent Lewis found what he was looking for at the “Epidemic of Veterans Suicide” seminar hosted recently at the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Washington, D.C. (DC VA Medical Center). Club Vet, whose members have sought services from the center, sponsored the forum.
Researchers, suicide prevention advocates and seminar organizers spoke to an attentive audience about suicide rates of veterans; pointed out warning signs and potential triggers for committing the act; encouraged those troubled with thoughts of suicide or concerned about others to speak out; and identified where, how and when to reach out for help.