Mike Crum U.S.M.C. Veteran/MSW

We will be discussing difficult topics, feel free to leave the room at anytime Notice the use of language Died by Suicide/NO use of “Committed Suicide” We are all here to learn so please ask questions! The more you know the more empowered you will be to help the clients and Veterans you serve!

Five Finger Death Punch, Wrong Side of Heaven

Committed- Used Everywhere! Person did not “Commit a sin” There’s nothing to feel sinful, or guilty about! Person did not “Commit” a crime Stigma---Shame---Silence!

1 in 5 Wisconsin Veterans are a Suicide Since 2007 over 700 Wisconsin Veterans have died by Suicide One out of every four who dies by Suicide had a previous attempt Over half of the Homeless Veteran population in the State will have a mental health need Over 70 % will have Alcohol or Drug addiction

Talking about wanting to die or killing themselves Looking for a way to killing themselves ( buying weapon) Talking about feeling hopeless, no reason to live Being a burden to others, calling to say goodbye Increasing use of drugs and alcohol Acting Anxious, agitated, increased reckless behavior Sleeping too little or too much Isolation Preoccupied with death Loss of interest in normal activities Acting happier or too calm Giving away prized possessions

Loss of Purpose Loss of feeling needed/Comradery Divorce Untreated trauma, such as childhood trauma Child Support/Difficulty with Custody Mental health Trauma, PTSD, TBI, Sexual Assault, Depression, Anxiety, Feeling worthless Loss of Job/Can’t keep job Loss---Loss—Loss-Loss—Constant grieving, not enough healing…….

Where an individual may experience survivors guilt following casualties during which Fellow service member are severely wounded or killed, or being home while units are Deployed. Veterans coping with Survivor’s Guilt may think about…. Why didn’t I get hurt Why did I live when other people died What could I have done differently to have prevented it This is a part of the grieving process…..

Remember guilt is a common reaction to loss and can be a part of the healing process. If not addressed can lead to psychological trauma such as depression, apathy, or general anxiety. 1. Acknowledge the Veterans feelings and let them know it’s ok to grieve. It is not their fault. 2. Seek out others for support/other Veterans/Combat 3. Take the time to mourn/assist them with planning a way they can remember the fallen 4. Help assist the Veteran with turning negative into positive. How can they remember the fallen? Fundraiser/volunteer/tell their story/what will make them feel like they can serve the greater good again?

Looking at Suicide as Genetic-Physical-Environmental Co-ocurring Morbid Disorders-Depression-Bi-polar- Anxiety, Schizophrenia, Paranoia, Substance Abuse For every completed suicide 6 to 8 people left behind to grieve the major loss- that loss can also lead to Suicidal thoughts, depression, extreme guilt, shame, anger, unable to grieve properly because of stigma

It is not about Dying! It is about stopping the trauma/images that are causing inner pain Looking at the journey that got them to that point, before military, during, and after are super important! Suicide can be seductive. Starts to be the answer Our goal has to be giving the Veteran other options helping them find that purpose they lost!

Ask the hard question “Are you thinking about Killing yourself. If Yes, Ask, how they plan to attempt the suicide If the person has a plan call for help, 911 for crisis intervention/welfare check, emergency room If no continue to talk

Prevent Suicide Wisconsin

Exercise Finding the Veteran a way to tell his/her story Positive Affirmations Journaling Music/Writing/Playing/Guitar4VETS Humor Stress Balls Breathing Exercises Finding what they are good at! Woodworking/Auto/painting/Help them empty their Glass!

Creating Veteran Specific Text line for the State Working with Legislation to create Veteran Specific Suicide Prevention Bill, to include better reporting and supportive services Education---Curriculum based Veterans and Mental Health Training