Veteran_ Resource_ book_2014

VET TO VET
Vet to Vet is dedicated to helping veterans and others who have psychiatric
conditions establish meaningful lives in the community. The group works to
improve and increase mental health services through community education and
service and is based on the concept of mutual help. Vet to Vet is made up of
people with mental illness or psychiatric conditions who happen to be veterans.
The organization provides training on how to establish ongoing peer support, and
materials are free. For more information, go to vet2vetusa.org/Home/tabid/37/
Default.aspx.
SUICIDE PREVENTION
Historically, active duty service members had lower rates of suicide than the
general population; however, since 2005 the rates have increased dramatically,
particularly among Soldiers and Marines. From 2005 to 2009, more than 1,100
members of the Armed Forces took their own lives: an average of one suicide
every 36 hours. Suicide is a major public health issue in the United States,
but it is important to recognize that suicide is a preventable tragedy.
With help comes hope.
HOW TO RECOGNIZE WHEN TO ASK FOR HELP
Sometimes, problems seem like they are impossible to solve for many different
reasons. Sometimes we are not even fully aware a problem is building up, we just
know something is wrong. When problems begin to build up, even the strongest
individuals may think about suicide. Yet suicide is not the answer.
It is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.
Learn the signs of suicide risk, and seek help immediately if any of the following
warning signs are recognized:
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Threatening to hurt or kill oneself
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Looking for ways to kill oneself
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Trying to get pills, guns, or other means to harm oneself
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Talking or writing about death, dying or suicide
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Feeling hopeless
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Experiencing rage, uncontrolled anger or seeking revenge
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Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities
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Feeling trapped, like there is no way out
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Abusing drugs or alcohol
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Withdrawing from friends or family
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