What is VA S.A.V.E. Training?
VA S.A.V.E. Training is a free, brief online or in-person course that will help you act with care and compassion if you come across a Veteran who is in crisis or having thoughts of suicide. The acronym S.A.V.E. helps you remember the important steps involved in suicide prevention:
S - Know the Signs that indicate a Veteran might be thinking about suicide
A - Ask the most important question of all — “Are you thinking of killing yourself?”
V - Validate the Veteran’s experience
E - Encourage treatment and Expedite getting help
How to Support a Veteran in Crisis
Keep these tips in mind when talking with a Veteran who may be at risk for suicide:
• Remain calm
• Listen more than you speak
• Maintain eye contact
• Act with confidence
• Do not argue
• Use open body language
• Limit questions—Let the Veteran do the talking
• Use supportive, hopeful comments
• Be honest—There are no quick solutions, but help is available
Additional Resources
• VA Mental Health Services: Get information about inpatient and outpatient services available through VA at MentalHealth.VA.gov.
• Online Resource Locator: Find VA facilities, Vet Centers, suicide prevention coordinators, and other VA resources at VeteransCrisisLine.net/LocalResources.
• Keep It Secure: Promotes awareness about the simple steps you can take to protect yourself and your family. It focuses on sharing information about secure gun and medication storage, the warning signs of suicide, and how to find the support you or a Veteran loved one needs. KeepItSecure.net
• Don’t wait. Reach out.: Use this site to find support and resources designed specifically for Veterans. If you’re a family member or a friend, you can also find resources for the Veteran in your life. VA.gov/REACH
Do you want to take VA S.A.V.E. Training?
Call the Madison VA Suicide Prevention Team at 608-256-1901 x11778 to schedule a training.
You don’t have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to take VA S.A.V.E. Training.
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