Ranger Up Talks Suicide: What’s Next?
By RU Rob
Over the last week The Rhino Den has covered the gamut relating to military and Veteran suicides. You have read first-hand how it affects the individual, friends, family and units. We have presented you an honest approach in dealing with a potentially suicidal person and a slew of facts that leave more questions asked than answers when it comes to comprehending the various statistics. In a bold move, one author even provided his name, telephone and email address for the hundreds of thousands of visitors who frequent The Rhino Den every month.
But what else can we do.
It really is quite simple. Keep an eye out on your battle-buddies.
When was the last time you picked up the phone and called your friends? When was the last time you popped-in on someone who you usually see but has been out of sight for a while?
From the time each of us entered our military service it has been pounded into our heads that we need to watch out for our battles. I don’t ever recall receiving an order to stand down from that mission, have you? Just as it was years ago, the same stands true to this day in that if we don’t watch out for each other, who will?
I want you to keep this going, share not only this, but every one of our series of articles with your friends, family, loved ones and anyone else who needs it. This sad trend is avoidable and with your continued collective voice we CAN make a difference.
I can barely scratch the surface when it comes to listing organizations that assist those in need. I am going to give links for the ones I know off the top of my head, but challenge you to continue in the comment section.
For immediate help call the Veterans Crisis Hotline:
CALL 1-800- 273-8255
TEXT 838255
Visit their page for more info at:
http://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
The American Legion
www.legion.org/suicideprevention
Facebook Suicide Reports
https://www.facebook.com/help/contact/305410456169423
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One Comment
Bonnie
September 14, 2013 at 10:04 am
I am a member of Soldiers’ Angels (one of Ranger UP’s – preferred charities). I volunteer at Menlo Park, CA VA Hospital in the PTSD unit. I know it is one of the best programs; people come from around the country to seek help. In brief: it is 3-6 months of residential living and treatment, they have a partnership with Stanford University (sleep studies) and you have to be willing to face your emotional vulnerabilities. Its hard work, however, hopefully you leave with “tools” and a better understanding of how to manage the struggles we face in life.
In the time I have volunteered there I have met men and women from all walks of life; active duty, recently returned from tour, to Vietnam Vets. Some have been on multiple tours, some have never deployed. The one thing they all have in common is a need to heal.
Please contact them if you or someone you know could use help in healing or calming the mind. Menlo Park VA Trauma Recovery Program 650-493-5000.
Aside from VA assistance – there is another great program: http://www.projectwelcomehometroops.org
I hope that those in need can find a program that will suit their needs/personality, there are so many places and people willing to help, you just need to take a moment to look.