September is World Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time meant to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and encourage veterans and their loved ones to reach out for help. Suicide continues to be a leading cause of death among veterans, particularly those under age 45, where it ranks as the second-leading cause of death.

Those struggling with conditions like PTSD and depression can feel hopeless and isolated.

The good news is that treatment, peer support, and growing awareness are helping more veterans find healing, connection, and hope. As of January 2023, all U.S. veterans are eligible for free emergency mental health care, underscoring the commitment to supporting veterans’ mental health. 

With the Veterans Administration (VA) offering options like telehealth appointments and crisis lines with professionals focusing on suicide prevention, there are a variety of flexible and effective pathways to help. Veterans and their families don’t have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to connect with someone through the Veterans Crisis Line.

Answering the Call: How the Veterans Crisis Line Saves Lives

The Veterans Crisis Line is a free and confidential support line providing 24/7 support to those experiencing mental health crises. The Veterans Crisis Line website also provides a robust list of programs and resources for veterans and their families. Every call, chat, or text to reach out is a step toward healing, connection, and renewed hope.

Since 2007, the Veterans Crisis Line has answered 7.6 million calls, 60,000 texts, and 910,000 online chats. And the impact is clear: among veterans who called while experiencing suicidal thoughts, 82.6% said the call helped stop them from acting on those thoughts.

When you call, chat, or text, a qualified responder will be ready to listen and help connect you with any resources you need. You can decide how much information to share; support doesn’t have to end with your conversation. Remember, help is here, and healing is possible. 

Call: 988, then press 1

Text: 838255

Chat online: Veterans Crisis Line

Additional access to resources for veterans and military families are available for free at www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/Resources.

Sources:

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. 2024 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report, Part 2. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, May 2024.  

Veterans Crisis Line. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Retrieved September 5, 2025, from https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/