WISCONSIN: Wisconsin Veterans Affairs Launches Suicide Prevention Plan
November 04, 2016
The Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs is launching a program to address mental health issues and suicide among the approximately 413,000 veterans in the state. According to Wisconsin Veterans Affairs Secretary John A. Scocos, the Zero Veteran Suicide Initiative aims “to completely prevent the terrible tragedy that is suicide.” Through the program, community members who have regular contact with veterans, such as family members and staff at veterans facilities, will be trained in Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR). Ninety-minute QPR modules will provide them with the tools to identify and assist veterans who may be at risk for suicide, much like training in CPR, with an emphasis on providing emergency intervention in family settings. U.S. Army Major General Mark Graham, who lost his son to suicide, said, “This can happen to any family. It’s important for everyone to know the warning signs.”
Spark Extra! Visit the Wisconsin Zero Veteran Suicide Initiative website to learn more.