VA Caregiver Support Program
Highlighted Resource of the Month
Resource of the Month
Every month, the Caregiver Support Program (CSP) highlights a resource available to caregivers, Veterans, and community partners who support caregivers and Veterans.
September’s Focus: Suicide Prevention
Suicide Prevention Education
In September, Suicide Prevention Month, Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) emphasizes its commitment to preventing Veteran suicide —regardless of whether they seek care within the VA system. Both Veterans and their caregivers face significant life challenges, but you don’t have to face them alone.
What is Suicide Prevention?
Suicide prevention involves a range of efforts aimed at reducing suicide risk. It requires action at individual, relational, community, and societal levels. VA values the role of caregivers as vital partners in a Veteran’s care but also recognizes that caregivers may experience thoughts of suicide and prevention efforts must include caregivers. VA Suicide Prevention is built upon 3 core tenants: suicide is preventable, suicide prevention requires a public health approach, and everyone plays a role.
Benefits of Suicide Prevention Education
- Learn more about suicide prevention
- Use tools to identify risk and protective factors and warning signs
- Provide support for suicide prevention needs
Explore this one-pager to discover programs designed for caregivers, offering practical techniques and resources to help prevent suicide and support Veterans.
VA resources include
- VA.gov/REACH-out
- VeteransCrisisLine.net
- Suicide Prevention - Mental Health - Mental Health (va.gov)
- VA S.A.V.E. Training for Caregivers
- Contact your local Suicide Prevention Coordinator
You can also call the Caregiver Support Line at 1-855-260-3274 for additional help connecting to other available resources.
More Information
• Reducing Firearm & Other Household Safety Risks for Veterans and Their Families: Read more.
• Staying Safe on Prescription Opioids: Learn about safe practices.
• Start the Conversation: Talking to a Veteran When You Are Concerned: Get guidance.
• Respite Care: Because Caregivers Need a Break Too: Find out more
Need Help?
Call VA’s Caregiver Support Line (CSL) at 1-855-260-3274 to learn more about the support that is available to you, and for assistance connecting with the Caregiver Support Team/Coordinator, at your local VA Medical Center.
Your local Caregiver Support Coordinator is a licensed professional who can support you by matching you with services for which you are eligible, and providing you with valuable information about resources that can help you stay smart, strong and organized as you care for the Veteran you love.
Subscribe to CSP emails to receive the latest updates, including upcoming events, program initiatives, and special messages from CSP’s Executive Director. Sign up here.
Disclaimer: *Links will take you outside of the Department of Veterans Affairs Website. VA does not endorse and is not responsible for the content of the linked websites.