{"id":8017,"date":"2024-11-15T15:30:00","date_gmt":"2024-11-15T15:30:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/itsveterans.com\/?p=8017"},"modified":"2024-11-15T15:30:00","modified_gmt":"2024-11-15T15:30:00","slug":"how-talking-about-suicide-can-save-a-life","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/itsveterans.com\/?p=8017","title":{"rendered":"How talking about suicide can save a life"},"content":{"rendered":"

Originally published:<\/strong> 2024-11-15T15:30:00+00:00. Historical source article: benefits, rules, amounts and deadlines may have changed. Check the official source for current information.<\/p>\n

Some people think they should remain silent if they suspect their loved one is contemplating suicide. They fear that bringing up thoughts of suicide might worsen the situation or even plant the idea in a loved one\u2019s mind.<\/p>\n

While I understand why some might hold this belief, I assure you this is not the case. If you think a Veteran you know may be considering suicide, engaging in an open and honest conversation could be lifesaving.<\/p>\n

The following is information you need to know before talking about suicide and some ideas of what to say to get the conversation going.<\/p>\n

What to know before starting the conversation<\/h2>\n

The most important thing to understand is that asking if someone is having thoughts of suicide won\u2019t give them the idea or increase their risk. It may seem daunting, but it could save their life.<\/p>\n

Here are some things to keep in mind when you\u2019re having the conversation:<\/p>\n