Veteran suicide prevention: From a personal story to solutions

Suicide is the leading preventable cause of death in the U.S.

Our project examines the unique risks and circumstances that impact veterans. In Minnesota an average of 107 veterans died by suicide each year between 2014 and 2020, making up nearly 15 percent of suicides in the state. Each story in this series also explores practices that are part of the solution.

Freelance reporter Janelle Bradley conceived of the project and put her heart and soul into it. The series starts with Janelle speaking about why this issue is so important to her.

If you are struggling, please reach out for help. You can find support by dialing 9-8-8.

This series was originally published in Project Optimist’s newsletters in September 2022.

Part 1

I lost a veteran to suicide, so I went on a search for preventions that work

Part 2

The VA helps prevent suicides with a process that starts with a question

Part 3

Here's where to get connected after launching a veteran suicide intervention

Part 4

Firearm safety is key to veteran suicide prevention – here's why

What does an intervention look like? We made a comic to illustrate the process.

An illustrated intervention: Helping a veteran in crisis