Resources to Address Veteran Suicide, from NYC Department of Veterans' Services (DVS)

Source: NYC Department of Veterans' Services (DVS)

According to the most recent report from the VA, 17 veterans die of suicide each day. Although that statistic may be disputed, we hope to provide as many resources as possible to help get the number to zero.

If you are a veteran who is struggling with a mental health crisis, please contact the Veteran Crisis Line: call 800-273-8255 (press 1), text 838255, or connect online.

Check-in Calls

• Mission: Vetcheck offers check-in calls to veterans across NYC. Request a check-in call for you or a veteran you know by contacting VetCheck@veterans.nyc.gov.

Counseling Services

• Headstrong is treating current and new veteran clients online during the COVID-19 emergency.
• New York-Presbyterian Military Family Wellness Center offers telehealth services, individual therapy, group therapy, and couples therapy for veterans and their families.
• NYU Steven Cohen Family Center provides free care for veterans and military families who are experiencing the long-term effects of military service.

Peer Support for Veterans

• The Objective Zero app gives veterans access to mental health resources and a peer support network.
• Vets4Warriors provides veterans, family members, and caregivers with 24/7 help from a confidential peer support network. Receive immediate, free, and long-term peer support through private chats, emails, phone, and text conversations.
• Stop Soldier Suicide connects veterans with a Wellness Coordinator who provides personalized attention and develops wellness plans that are customized to address a veteran's specific needs.

Additional Resources:

• NYC Well is a confidential helpline for mental health and substance abuse services. Trained counselors provide 24/7 support. To reach NYC Well, call 888-NYC-WELL or text WELL to 65173.
• NY Project Hope provides support for those struggling with life during the pandemic. Call 1-844-863-9314.

For veterans in recovery, the following organizations are providing online meetings:

• Unity Recovery
• 12Step.org
• In the Rooms
• LifeRing
• Never Alone Club

Many of us may not be aware that someone we care about is struggling. We encourage everyone to share these resources with friends, family, and professional networks.

Click here to read more about what else is being done in bringing about awareness to Veteran Suicide: https://mailchi.mp/veterans/dvs-weeklynewsletter-veteransuicideresources