Tuesday, September 17, 2019

VA Suicide Prevention: You are not alone

Jeff, Yasmeen, Joseph and Nicole have been there



Most people who consider suicide have problems they think they can never overcome. They think that no one can help them and that suicide is the only way out.
Some of the Veterans on this website felt that way. But they’re here today to tell you how they made it through and to assure you that you can too.

Click on the links to see the videos of their stories

While deployed, Jeff endured enemy fire, mortar attacks, and rocket blasts. The effects stuck with him. At one point, he was on the verge of taking his own life when his wife, Cora, convinced him to seek help. Learn how Jeff has used therapy, community, and gymnastics to recover. His advice today: Go for it: Take that first step
Yasmeen experienced severe depression in the Navy after witnessing a fellow sailor die. An attempt at self-harm made her realize it was time to get help. Through counseling at VA, Yasmeen learned ways to manage her mental health challenges. Now, she has improved relationships with her children and is on track to graduate from college.
Joseph was overwhelmed with guilt after the fellow sailor he loved died by suicide. After he left the Navy, Joseph experienced feelings of hopelessness and developed an eating problem. When he reconnected with a former teacher, he found the support he needed to begin counseling and turn his life around. “Now it’s time for me.”
“I feel like I’m not being judged and that’s what I was afraid of.”
Nicole, an Army Veteran, witnessed a suicide bombing that could have easily taken her life. Upon returning home, she dealt with symptoms of PTSD and anxiety, but she found hope in a new life with her daughter. Through treatment, Nicole learned to manage her symptoms every day in simple ways, like journaling and spending time with her daughter.
There are millions of Veterans and family members who have reached out for support during tough times. Their lives got better. Yours can too.
https://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/66199/va-suicide-prevention-not-alone/ 

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