Being in the military can be stressful for service members and their families. Everyone reacts to stress and traumatic experiences differently, and some may feel angry or isolated while they are dealing with difficult circumstances. These reactions can be common responses to life events. However, for some, these feelings may be signs of more serious conditions, including depression, traumatic brain injury or post-traumatic stress disorder. People coping with these concerns may feel like there is no escape from their symptoms, leading them to have thoughts of suicide. Fortunately, tools for resilience and recovery are available.

Real Warriors Seek Care

At the 2011 Department of Defense/Veterans Affairs Annual Suicide Prevention Conference, Dr. Jonathan Woodson, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs said a key to preventing suicide is reducing the stigma associated with mental health care. "We have to change the attitudes that all too often keep people from getting the right care at the right time," Woodson said. He stressed that seeking mental health care is a sign of strength, not a sign of weakness adding that, "Getting help is what real warriors do."

Recognizing Symptoms of Those at Risk

It is important that service members, veterans and their families learn how to recognize stressors in order to help those around them who may be having difficulty.

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, there may be cause for concern. It is important to seek professional guidance right away if your loved one, co-worker or friend is:

Reach Out For Support

The Department of Defense takes the issue of suicide very seriously and is actively working to reduce the number of suicides. To learn more about suicide and how to prevent it take a look at the resources available to you.

Immediate assistance is available through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255), service members and veterans choose 1.

Each service branch offers resources for service members and their families:

	National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Dial 800-273-TALK (8255), service members and veterans choose “1” Learn more »
	DCoE Outreach Center Dial 866-966-1020 for information and assistance with concerns related to psychological health or traumatic brain injury Learn more »
	Military OneSource Dial 800-342-9647 for confidential assistance with a wide range of issues related to military deployments and service Learn more »
	Real Warriors Promotes the processes of building resilience, facilitating recovery and supporting reintegration of returning service members, veterans and their families Learn more »
	Afterdeployment.org A variety of wellness resources for service members, veterans and families to include online assessments and workshops for topics such as depression, physical injury, post-traumatic stress, anxiety and anger Learn more »
	TRICARE A Mental Health Resource Center for service members and their families TRICARE: Mental Health » TRICARE: Mental Health Resources »
	Military Pathways A psychological health screening and referral program for military families and service members affected by deployment and mobilization. This voluntary and anonymous program is offered online, by phone, and through special events held at installations and reserve units. Learn more »
	Veterans Affairs Promotes the processes of building resilience, facilitating recovery and supporting reintegration of returning service members, veterans and their families Veteran Affairs: Suicide Prevention » Veteran Affairs: VA ACE Card & Brochure »

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