Preventing Veteran Suicide: When ‘All is Merry and Bright’ Doesn’t Ring True for Everyone

(KNSI) — The song says, “All is merry and bright,” but it’s not all merry and bright for everyone.

The Department of Veteran Affairs says veteran suicide is one and a half times higher than the national average. Social Worker Ann Fleming, with the suicide prevention program at the St. Cloud VA, explains it’s a hard time of year for vets struggling with things like mental health issues and loneliness. “Sometimes folks might not have that perfect setting, or maybe they don’t have family at all. Perhaps they’ve been struggling with substance use or suicidal thoughts; things like that can make it really extra stressful around the holidays.”

Fleming says it can be especially difficult if there is an empty spot around the dinner table. “It can be a difficult time, grief and loss around. Certainly anniversaries or special days, like holidays, can really let the grief and loss seem heavier during those times. And that can certainly be a risk factor for suicide.”

Experts ask family and friends to check on veterans this time of year and make sure they feel welcome by offering them a place to go if you can.

The National Suicide and Prevention Lifeline can be reached by calling 988. Veterans can call and press 1. It can also be reached by texting the word TALK to 741741.

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