Supporting the Loved Ones of Veterans Who Have Died by Suicide
Losing a loved one to suicide is one of the most difficult and heartbreaking experiences anyone can face, and when that loved one is a veteran, the pain can feel even more complex. The Veteran Survivor of Suicide Toolkit is here to offer guidance, comfort, and practical resources for those who are navigating this challenging time.
What’s Inside the Toolkit?
The Veteran Survivor of Suicide Toolkit has been thoughtfully designed to support friends, family members, and communities affected by the suicide of a veteran. This comprehensive resource offers:
Understanding Grief and Loss: A breakdown of the unique nature of grief following the loss of a veteran, including feelings of guilt, anger, and sorrow.
Practical Help: Step-by-step guidance on what to do immediately following a death, including managing legal and financial matters, funeral planning, and understanding veteran entitlements.
Coping Strategies: Advice on self-care and coping techniques, including how to reach out for support, care for your mental health, and find connection with others who have experienced similar loss.
Help-Seeking Information: A curated list of trusted services and organizations for professional mental health support, both for individuals and families, that are familiar with the challenges faced by veteran communities.
Community and Veteran Support Services: Access to veteran-specific organizations that can provide emotional support, financial advice, and more.
Who is This Toolkit For?
This toolkit has been created for anyone who has lost a veteran to suicide, including:
Family members: spouses, partners, children, parents, siblings, and extended family.
Friends: close friends and fellow veterans who were deeply connected to the deceased.
Communities: organisations, support networks, or military units directly impacted by the loss.
Why This Toolkit Matters
We understand that grief following a suicide is different. The emotional, mental, and physical toll it takes on survivors can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to go through it alone. This toolkit aims to:
Provide Comfort: Offering clear, compassionate guidance to help make sense of the complex emotions you may be feeling.
Connect You to Resources: From mental health services to financial and legal support, the toolkit offers access to trusted organizations that specialize in helping veteran survivors.
Build Community: You are not alone in this journey. The toolkit encourages connection with others who understand your experience, whether through support groups, online communities, or veteran services.
How to Access the Toolkit
The Survivor of a Veteran Suicide Toolkit is available to download for free from the below link. Whether you need it for yourself or want to share it with someone you know, this resource is here for anyone in need.