Suicide-Prevention Training

The VA, collaborating with PsychArmor Institute, a national non-profit that provides online education and support to Americans who work with, live with, or care for military service members, veterans, and their families, has recently launched an online suicide-prevention training video titled “SAVE.” This video is designed to equip anyone who interacts with veterans to demonstrate care, support, and compassion when talking with a veteran who could be at risk for suicide.

SAVE stands for:

  • Signs: Recognize the signs of suicidal thinking.
  • Ask: Ask the veteran directly about thoughts of suicide.
  • Validate: Validate the veteran's experience.
  • Encourage and Expedite: Encourage them to seek help and expedite getting support.

Training Course Highlights:

  • Suicide is a public health issue in the US.
  • Signs that a veteran may be at risk for suicide.
  • Actions people can take if they identify a veteran at risk.

Quotes and Insights: “VA is leading efforts to prevent suicide among veterans, but VA alone cannot end veteran suicide,” said VA Acting Secretary Peter O’Rourke. “We need strategic partners, care providers, and communities to join us in this effort. Resources such as SAVE are crucial in helping all Americans support veterans in their community.”

VA suicide prevention coordinators have led the SAVE course at VA facilities and community centers across the nation. VA officials have emphasized that extending and promoting this vital training outside the VA is critical in helping everyone play a role in suicide prevention.

Access the Free Training Video: The free training video can be viewed at PsychArmor Institute.    https://psycharmor.org/courses/s-a-v-e/.

Veterans in Crisis: Veterans in crisis or having thoughts of suicide — and anyone who knows a Veteran in crisis — should call the Veterans Crisis Line for confidential support 24 hours a day and 365 days a year.