In a recent government meeting focused on suicide prevention, attendees observed a moment of silence to honor veterans who have succumbed to suicide, highlighting the ongoing crisis affecting this community. Rebecca Dreyfus, the Suicide Prevention Program Coordinator from the Veterans Administration, led a presentation emphasizing the critical need for awareness and action during September, recognized as Suicide Prevention Month.

Dreyfus outlined the complex factors contributing to the rising suicide rates, noting that for every suicide, approximately 135 individuals are impacted, including family, friends, and colleagues. She stressed the importance of understanding both risk and protective factors associated with suicidal behavior, which range from mental health issues and unemployment to access to healthcare and community support.

A significant focus of the discussion was on the role of firearms in veteran suicides, with Dreyfus noting that firearms are involved in 85-90% of fatal suicide attempts. She advocated for \"lethal means safety,\" which includes promoting the use of gun locks to create barriers between individuals in crisis and potential means of self-harm. Dreyfus emphasized that 90% of those who survive a suicide attempt do not go on to die by suicide, underscoring the importance of timely intervention.

The presentation also addressed common myths surrounding suicide, such as the misconception that individuals who express suicidal thoughts are merely seeking attention. Dreyfus encouraged attendees to take such expressions seriously and to engage in supportive conversations, reinforcing that anyone can play a role in suicide prevention.

To equip community members with the tools to help those in distress, Dreyfus introduced the SAVE acronym: Signs of suicidal thinking, Asking the question, Validating the individual, and Encouraging treatment. She highlighted key warning signs, including feelings of hopelessness, anxiety, and withdrawal from social connections.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for all community members to be vigilant and proactive in supporting those who may be struggling, reinforcing that suicide prevention is a shared responsibility.