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Many veterans are doing well, contributing to their communities, and thriving. However, many veterans may also face challenges related to trauma, transition, isolation, mental health, substance use, physical health, or financial stress. These challenges do not define a veteran's future. As Veterans Day approaches on November 11, we can honor veterans not only through recognition and gratitude, but also by ensuring that they and their families know they are valued, heard, and never alone.
Reaching out to a veteran who might be struggling can be lifesaving. You don't have to be an expert--just being there, listening with compassion, and connecting them with support can make all the difference. You can start by asking open-ended questions like:
-- "How have you been feeling lately?"
-- "Is there anything on your mind that you'd like to talk about?"
-- "I care about you. How can I support you?"
While a veteran may not immediately share what they are experiencing, continue to show patience and genuine concern. Choose a private, comfortable setting when possible, and listen without judgment. You do not have to solve every problem or provide the perfect answer. Sometimes, being present and allowing someone to tell their story is an important first step toward healing.
Certain changes may signal that a veteran is struggling or may be considering suicide. You can help support veterans in your life by watching for the following signs in conversation, texts, social media posts, or changed behavior:
-- Expressing hopelessness, feeling trapped, or feeling like a burden
-- Withdrawing from family, friends, or regular activities
-- Increasing alcohol or drug use, or extreme mood swings
-- Expressing unbearable emotional or physical pain
If you notice significant changes, ask directly and calmly: "Are you thinking about killing yourself?" Asking about suicide won't plant the idea; it shows you care. If a veteran says they are thinking about suicide, remain with them if it is safe to do so, help reduce immediate access to lethal means when possible, and connect them with immediate support through the Veterans Crisis Line (dial 988, then press 1) or emergency services (dial 911).
A veteran may believe they are the only person experiencing a particular struggle, that nobody wants to hear their story, or that asking for help is a burden. These beliefs can deepen isolation, but a caring response can help: "You do not have to carry this alone," "I want to hear what you have to say," and "We can find support together."
Veterans Day is less than a month away. As communities prepare to honor veterans, we can make that recognition personal and ongoing. Ask a veteran how they are doing--not only what they did in uniform. Make space for their full story, including experiences of pride, loss, transition, resilience, and hope. Honoring veterans means more than thanking them. It also means listening, checking in, reducing stigma, and helping ensure that support is available when it is needed. Every veteran matters, every conversation counts, and hope is always real.
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If you or a veteran you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. You are not alone, and there is support available right here in Columbiana County.
VETERANS CRISIS LINE: Dial 988, then press 1 to contact the Veterans Crisis Line to receive 24/7, confidential support. You don't have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to connect.
CRISIS TEXT LINE: Text "HOME" to 741741 to connect with a Crisis Counselor.
VA RESOURCE LINE: Call 1-800-MyVA411 (1-800-698-2411) for general VA benefits, health care, and directory assistance.
EMERGENCY: If there is an immediate risk of harm, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.If a veteran is experiencing an emergency related to suicide or behavioral health, report within 72 hours of arriving at the hospital by calling 1-844-724-7842 to access emergency mental health care benefits under the COMPACT Act.
This article is brought to you by the Columbiana County Suicide Prevention Coalition. To learn more about our resources, local initiatives, or how to get involved, please visit https://tinyurl.com/Suicide-Prevention-Coalition and follow us on Facebook @ColumbianaCountySuicidePreventionCoalition.