 Are you feeling tired, stressed, or wanting to improve your overall well-being? What if you could feel happier, less stressed, and more in control? There’s no better time than now to check out the Veterans Wellness Guide.
This workbook is based on the science of well-being and is organized in short, easy-to-use activities. Topics include: Understanding Health, Managing Thoughts, Making Every Moment Count, Sleeping Well, and Health Eating.
Check it out here or at https://www.mirecc.va.gov/VISN16/docs/veteran-wellness-guide.pdf
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We’re excited to announce that 211 Helpline resources are now available in the 211 App! During a time when many individuals and families are experiencing challenges, we hope this additional option provides an ease to accessing resources.
The 211 Helpline app connects users to community resources in South Dakota. From quick questions to serious concerns, the free and confidential app brings resources to your fingertips.
You are not alone. Every day people turn to 211 for information and support – whether financial, family, health, or disaster-related. The call or text is free and confidential.
You can choose your location to find resources available in your area. From health and human service programs, community services, disaster services and government programs, the 211 Helpline app is a one-stop source of information. Categories listed include food, housing, financial assistance, employment services, healthcare, volunteer/donate and more.
To find out more or download the app, click here.
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 VA respects the important role firearms play in many Veterans’ lives and is dedicated to educating Veterans, their families, and communities about how safe storage can prevent suicide. In 2018, firearms were used in nearly half of all U.S. suicide deaths and nearly 70% of suicides among U.S. Veterans. Safe storage can put time and space between an individual and a firearm and help keep Veterans and their loved ones safe during a suicidal crisis.
There are several reasons why firearm safety is even more critical in times of community stress, when the risk of firearm injury increases. Click here to learn more about why community stress is a risk factor for firearm injury and best safety-related practices if you reside in a home with a firearm.
VA offers community trainings on lethal means safety. Let us know if you are interested in hosting a training by sending an email to VHABHHCSSuicidePrevention@va.gov
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 The 2020 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report was released following Veteran’s Day this year. The Report provides an analysis of Veteran suicide data from 2005 through 2018. Findings documented in this report highlight the continuing and increasing problem of suicide among U.S. adults and among Veterans, and the need for ongoing efforts to improve methods of suicide risk mitigation. As a deliberate reminder to all that there is always hope, we first share several Anchors of Hope that emerged from the data.
- Anchor 1: From 2017 to 2018, adjusted suicide rates fell among Veterans with recent VHA care, while rising among other Veterans.
- Anchor 2: Among Veterans in VHA care, rates fell from 2005 to 2018 in those with depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders.
- Anchor 3: In 2018, suicide rates decreased for specific Veteran populations engaged in VHA care.
- Anchor 4: The Veteran suicide rate did not increase significantly between 2017 and 2018.
- Anchor 5: There is a groundswell of support for coordinated efforts at the local, regional, and national levels to implement a public health approach to end suicide.
In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, VA is monitoring trends in suicide-related behaviors. Thus far, findings do not indicate increases in suicide-related behavior among Veterans in VHA care. COVID-19 Veteran Surveillance data is also included.
Take a deeper dive into the data and Anchors of Hope here or by visiting https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/suicide_prevention/data.asp
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