Learn to identify signs you or others are struggling, find resources and get tips on how you can support yourself and others who have served.
Article: 5 minutes
Updated: June 16, 2026 Published: July 7, 2022
By: USAA Reviewed by: Editorial contributors
When life becomes overwhelming, it’s important to remember that you’re never alone.
Around-the-clock help and support are always available to you if you or a loved one find yourself struggling with thoughts of suicide.
Veterans are strong, resourceful, and deeply connected to one another, forming deep bonds during their service. Those bonds are especially important when life becomes overwhelming, whether on duty or after you’ve returned to civilian life. Suicide prevention takes all of us looking out for each other, checking in and knowing what to do when someone is struggling.
As part of our commitment to veteran well-being, we’ve partnered with several other organizations to form Face the Fight® Opens in a New Window. See note 1 We’re working together to raise awareness and support for veteran suicide prevention and build safer, more supportive communities.
If you or someone you know has been struggling, it can be hard to know how to respond or what to do. This guide offers steps to help you find support for yourself or someone you care about.
We’re often afraid to talk about suicide and mental health, feeling like it’s too personal, or we’re worried we’ll put the idea in someone’s mind. But asking someone directly if they’re struggling with suicidal or dark thoughts can actually have the opposite effect. It can help people feel safer and more willing to open up about what they’re going through. A calm, clear approach can get the conversation going and possibly save a life.
You could start the conversation by simply saying: “With everything going on, have you had thoughts of killing yourself?” Then just listen.
You do not need to fix everything. You only need to be present and willing to hear what is going on.
Be ready to help create a safer environment during high-stress moments. This can include storing firearms more securely, separating ammunition, using locking devices or temporarily removing firearms from the home and placing them with a trusted friend or family member.
Small steps that create time and space can greatly reduce risk. But know the warning signs Opens in a New Window. See note 1 If the situation seems bigger than what you feel equipped to handle, it is time to reach out for professional support.
You can often notice when something is off with a friend, family member, or even yourself. Maybe they seem overwhelmed and withdrawn or are acting differently than normal. Those signals matter. Trust your instincts.
Many programs can help you learn how to recognize distress and respond to suicide risk. They often teach from a similar framework:
If you’re looking for resources to help you support a loved one, you could try:
When someone needs help, it can be hard to know the first step. But mental health support, community programs and national resources tailored to veterans are all just a click away with Check-In Opens in a New Window. See note 1 Once you reach out, you’ll be paired with a trained care coordinator within 72 hours, and they’ll create a personalized care plan based on your unique needs.
If you’re worried about an immediate risk of suicide, crisis support is available around the clock.
Call 988 and press 1 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line Opens in a New Window. See note 1 Or text SERVE for English or SERVICIO for Spanish to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line Opens in a New Window. See note 1
Free emergency care during a suicide crisis is also available at any VA facility. The VA provides inpatient or crisis residential services and follow-up outpatient care at no cost.
Other organizations that are part of Face the Fight offer trusted support include:
These programs work alongside the VA and many other community providers to connect veterans to the right support at the right time.
Suicide prevention is not only about crisis response. It is also about strengthening the protective bonds that keep people grounded. Belonging, purpose and connection save lives.
Try reaching out each month to someone you have lost touch with. A simple text or message of support can help someone feel seen and connected. Research shows that a simple caring outreach can reduce suicide risk and offer meaningful connection.
Consider finding organizations that help build a community. Members of the Face the Fight coalition are expanding these connections across the country. For example, Onward Ops Opens in a New Window See note 1 provides trained community sponsor who help service members navigate transitioning out of the military. Or build meaningful relationships through wellness, movement and shared purpose with Team Red, White and Blue Opens in a New Window. See note 1 These programs help veterans find their footing and grow and maintain strong support networks.
Checking in, having open conversations, and taking simple safety steps like securely storing firearms during stressful times can help create a safer environment for veterans and their families. These build on the same strengths veterans use every day: watching out for one another, noticing when something is off, and stepping in when support is needed.
No one has to do this alone. Support is always available. Whether you are concerned about yourself or someone close to you, there are trusted organizations, peers, and professionals ready to help at every step.
Explore trusted programs and resources that can help during difficult moments. See note 1