The Power of 1: Your actions could save a life
One small act can make a difference in the life of a Veteran in crisis.
Every year, organizations across the country recognize September as Suicide Prevention Month. This year, join the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), local and national organizations, and individuals across the country in supporting The Power of 1: Show how one act can encourage Veterans, Service members, and their loved ones to seek confidential crisis support from the Veterans Crisis Line.
Whether it’s something as simple as striking up a conversation with a Veteran, or encouraging those on your social networks to support Veterans in your area, every little bit counts. Your actions could save a life.
Free, Confidential Crisis Support Anytime by Phone, Chat, or Text
The Veterans Crisis Line is a free, confidential crisis resource that Veterans and their families and friends can access any day, anytime. Trained responders — some of them Veterans themselves — are ready to listen, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
VA counts on grass-roots networks and community organizations to spread the word that support is just a call, click, or text away — because we’re all in this together, and one small act shows you care.
Identifying Signs of Crisis
Sometimes, a crisis may involve thoughts of suicide. The following signs require immediate attention:
- Thinking about hurting or killing yourself
- Looking for ways to kill yourself
- Talking about death, dying, or suicide
- Self-destructive behavior such as drug abuse, weapons, etc.
If you notice any of these in a Veteran or Service member you know, connect him or her with the Veterans Crisis Line’s 24/7/365 resources: Call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1, chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/chat, or text to 838255.