Suicide prevention resources available this month
September marks Suicide Prevention Month, and the Department of Veterans Affairs is working with community partners to expand outreach and connection efforts aimed at keeping veterans safe and supported. During a recent Veteran Resources Community Network meeting, VA leaders and partner organizations shared resources and strategies focused on building strong community ties that can help veterans before they reach a crisis point.
The Veteran Resources Community Network brings together VA staff, veteran service organizations, community groups, and other partners to coordinate outreach and support efforts for veterans nationwide. Suicide prevention remains one of VA's highest priorities, as suicide affects not only individual veterans but also their families and communities, often for years. VA Chief Veterans Experience Officer Lynda Davis emphasized during the meeting that veterans need to know they have options and that support is available to them.
This effort reaches all veterans, whether currently enrolled in VA healthcare or not. A recent VA outreach campaign focused on sleep and chronic pain has connected more than 35,000 veterans who were not enrolled in VA care with healthcare services since January, demonstrating that earlier access to care helps VA identify and address veterans' needs sooner. These connections are particularly important because sleep problems and chronic pain can affect mental health and increase suicide risk.
VA is encouraging participation in Buddy Check Week, scheduled for September 21-25 as part of the Don't Wait, Reach Out campaign. The observance provides veterans, families, friends, and supporters an opportunity to check in with people in their lives through simple, genuine connection. This year's resources include refreshed guidance, a redesigned webpage on how to conduct a buddy check, peer wellness training videos, and downloadable outreach materials. Starbucks is supporting the effort for the third consecutive year by donating gift cards to the first 20,000 individuals who complete the Buddy Check pledge and training.
For disabled veterans specifically, staying connected to both VA care and community support networks can make a critical difference in managing the challenges that often accompany service-connected disabilities. Chronic pain, sleep disturbances, and isolation are common among veterans with disabilities, and these factors can compound mental health struggles. The emphasis on community-led approaches recognizes that formal healthcare is just one piece of the support puzzle, and that peer connections and culturally responsive programs can build trust and reduce isolation in ways that complement clinical care.
Veterans should consider taking the Buddy Check pledge and reaching out to fellow veterans during the designated week in late September, but the principle applies year-round. If you are experiencing sleep problems, chronic pain, or feelings of isolation, connecting with VA healthcare services can open doors to treatment and support, even if you have not previously enrolled. Veteran service organizations and community partners can help navigate these connections, and simple acts like checking in with a fellow veteran through a text, phone call, or coffee meeting can make a meaningful difference in someone's life.