E52: Veteran and Caregiver Suicide Prevention w/ Sherman Gillums, Jr.
Manage episode 311186851 series 3087421
Join us for a candid conversation about veterans, their caregivers, and suicide. September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and a subject Mar and Jenn are passionate about supporting. Our country is facing a mental health crisis that has only worsened in the wake of a global pandemic. Suicide is a tough and complex issue, but seeing how you can do your part in helping yourself and those around you can make all the difference. Our guest this episode is Sherman Gillums Jr., Chief Strategy Officer of American Veterans (AMVETS). Learn more about AMVETS and connect with Sherman:
Call (833) VET HEAL
Email vetheal@amvets.org
DM Sherman on social media, @SGillums
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, available 24/7/365, agents speak both English and Spanish. Phone: 800-273-8255
For our listeners who care for veterans and are interested in more information about the VA Caregiver Program, please visit caregiver.va.gov.
Facts mentioned in this episode:
- According to a recent CDC report, 31% of unpaid family caregivers reporting seriously considering suicide in the past 30 days, compared to 11% of other adults. Unpaid family caregivers also reported having more symptoms of depression and anxiety and starting or increasing substance use to cope with the stress of COVID-19 on top of caregiving.
- The survey was administered to 5,500 adults between June 24-30th.
- According to SAMHSA, in 2018 only 4% of adults had serious thoughts of suicide.
The Veterans Crisis Line connects Veterans in crisis and their families and friends with qualified, caring Department of Veterans Affairs responders through a confidential toll-free hotline, online chat, or text. Veterans and their loved ones can call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1, chat online at crisistextline.org, or send a text message to 741741 to receive confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Remember, you are not alone.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thiscaregiverlife/message
74 episódios