CALLING THE VETERANS CRISIS LINE CAN SAVE YOUR LIFE
Mental health concerns haven’t always been at the forefront of the military or society’s minds, but thankfully, things have been changing for the better. Unfortunately, that doesn’t mean that these problems go away, and the truth remains that Veterans consistently are at a higher risk of suicide than other demographics in the United States. The Veteran Crisis Line is available by dialing 988 and then pressing 1. Here, Veterans can receive professional help from trained crisis counselors on a number of mental health issues via talk, text, or chat. Read next:Dial 988: Suicide Prevention Hotline Officially Changed
What Happens When You Call the Veterans Crisis Line?
Making a call to the Veterans Crisis Line is very straightforward. Calls are free and confidential, and it’s up to you which pieces of information you decide to share. Here’s how it works:
- After you call, you’ll hear a recording alerting you that you’ve reached the Veterans Crisis Line.
- A brief pause will occur as it connects your call with a qualified professional that can listen and help.
- The responder then asks you a few questions, including info about your service and whether or not you are in danger or at risk of suicide.
- If you or someone else is in immediate danger, you’ll be assisted by being connected to the appropriate service you need to help you get out of your crisis. Should you share contact information, a suicide prevention coordinator at the closest VA medical center to you will get in contact by the next business day.
- If no one is in imminent danger but is still facing a crisis, the professional will be there to listen, give support, and help create a plan to keep everyone safe.
- The following business day, you may be contacted by a local suicide prevention coordinator to ensure everything is still ok.
Each situation is different, and the help you receive will be tailored to the needs of the caller. This could mean being connected with local resources, receiving emotional support, or getting help to create a safety plan. The service is available 24/7. Not in the mood to speak on the phone? Don’t worry; there are options available other than the Veterans Crisis Line number. Simply text 838255, or chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat to get connected with professionals.
Veterans Remain at a Higher Risk for Suicide
Yes, Veterans continue to face a higher risk of suicide than civilians. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), Veterans are at higher risk of suicide and are 1.5x more likely to die by suicide than non-Veteran adults, and the professionals who are working to help them continue to struggle to prevent these tragedies. Awareness is important and continues to be a strong campaign among the military community and those who support it. Educating Veterans is also an important step in providing the knowledge and resources to those who have served. Veteran suicide prevention continues to be a point of emphasis with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Today, Vet Centers equipped with qualified professionals can be found throughout the United States, as well as Veterans Benefits Administration offices to help Vets access benefits for ongoing mental health support.
How To Work for the Veterans Crisis Line
Working for the Veterans Crisis Line is a noble path to follow. Available 24/7, the national suicide hotline is there to support Veterans and the military community as a whole, no matter what. To find specific Veterans Crisis Line jobs available, you’ll need to check the organization’s job postings for specifics. Still, being qualified in the field of psychology is a great start. Having experience in counseling, social work, and psychology will go a long way. You’ll also want to have great communication skills, empathy, the ability to work under pressure, and a willingness to want to work with Veterans in crisis. Working with any suicide prevention hotline is a great way to give back while earning a living and making a difference. Those at the Veterans Crisis Line are acting as heroes to the heroes of our nation when they need help the most. Suggested read:New Veteran Suicide Report Shows Positive News
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