Blog Post

IAVA Partners with the Veterans Crisis Line
Posted by Jason Hansman on February 21 2012

In the last year alone, IAVA has helped more than 20,000 veterans seeking mental health support. But we're constantly striving to better serve our veterans community. Today, IAVA is proud to announce a powerful new partnership with the Veterans Crisis Line to help our members in their toughest times of need.

• Learn more about the Veterans Crisis Line.
• Add the Veterans Crisis Line number to your phone, it only takes a second - 1-800-273-8255 press 1 for Veterans. Or text "838255" for support.
• Join our discussion in Community of Veterans (COV) to learn more about the partnership and the warning signs of suicide.

Over the last few years, Community of Veterans has been there for thousands of IAVA members when nobody else was. It's provided critical jobs resources, GI Bill info and live chats. It's also provided support on sleepless nights, a place to talk about PTSD and a safe space to discuss issues only vets understand. But sometimes, veterans in the community have needed help beyond our scope.

Now, thanks to this new partnership with our friends at the Veterans Crisis Line, IAVA will have a stronger, lifesaving backstop anytime we need it. Backed by more than 200 courageous, dedicated professionals, the Veterans Crisis Line offers free confidential crisis support 24/7 through phone, text and live online chats. It will provide a direct support line for IAVA members and our staff. And that means no waiting, no bureaucracy and saving more lives.

No one needs to be reminded that we have a suicide crisis in our community. Last year, 278 soldiers took their lives in the Army alone. Many of us have felt the pain of losing a buddy or know someone who has. Recently, a majority of you told us in IAVA's survey that mental health and preventing suicide are priorities for you and have been from the beginning.

Back in 2007, IAVA fought for the creation of the Veterans Crisis Line as part of the Joshua Omvig Veterans Suicide Prevention Act. Joshua served in Iraq with the 339th MP Company but lost a battle to PTSD when he came home. Over the years, IAVA has worked with Joshua's mom, our members nationwide and leaders in Washington to deliver the 24/7 support and resources that didn't exist for Joshua. The Veterans Crisis Line is part of his legacy.

IAVA will continue to stay focused on this issue. We’re committed to getting our members the immediate support they need and deserve. It's one more way we can have each other's back.

Sometimes a crisis may involve thoughts of suicide. Learn to recognize these warning signs:

• Hopelessness, feeling like there’s no way out
• Anxiety, agitation, sleeplessness, or mood swings
• Feeling like there is no reason to live
• Rage or anger
• Engaging in risky activities without thinking
• Increasing alcohol or drug abuse
• Withdrawing from family and friends

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.

Take some time to add the Veteran Crisis Line to your phone: 1 800 273 8255 press 1 or text 838255

Visit them online at http://veteranscrisisline.net/ for confidential chat.

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