This holiday season, Pennsylvanians are encouraged to send a Caring Message to veterans they know, possibly saving a life. This initiative is part of the Governor’s Challenge to Prevent Suicide Among Service Members, Veterans and Their Families, led by the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.
“It is important for everyone who knows a veteran to let that veteran know how much you care about them,” said Rick Hamp, the Pennsylvania Governor’s Challenge team lead from DMVA. “A Caring Message is simple to send and can take the form of a letter, text, email, phone call or any communication. Simply reminding a veteran that they matter, especially one who might be in crisis, can be lifesaving.”
As part of the campaign, the Governor’s Challenge team is sending letters and emails specifically to veteran advocates and healthcare providers throughout Pennsylvania, encouraging them to reach out to veterans they serve.
“Anyone who knows a veteran can send a Caring Message, but it is especially important for veteran advocates and healthcare providers who regularly see veterans to take the time to reach out with any form of positive communication,” said Hamp. “A Caring Message could be as simple as, ‘It was great to see you today. I am looking forward to your next visit.’”
Hamp said the holidays can be exceptionally depressing for some veterans, so this is the perfect time to be proactive and make that connection. He added that current service members and their families should be thought about, too.
Military veterans are 1.5 times more likely to die by suicide than Americans who never served in the military. For female veterans, the risk factor is 2.2 times more likely. Pennsylvania serves nearly 800,000 veterans, the fourth largest veteran population in the country. It is one of 35 states taking part in the Governor’s Challenge. Participants work to implement statewide suicide prevention best practices and learn from stakeholders nationwide.
Veterans who are in crisis are urged to call the toll-free Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-TALK and press 1. This service is available 24/7 to everyone. All calls are confidential.
