Ever Since The Veteran Crisis Line Was Launched Two Years Ago, Nearly Two Million Calls And Texts Have Been Answered
After launching its 988 crisis hotline for veterans and their families two years ago, the Department of Veterans Affairs has answered nearly two million calls, texts, and online chats.
The launch of Dial 988 Press 1 provides easier access to lifesaving resources for veterans and their loved ones, helping to prevent potential suicides.
Veterans are at a higher risk of taking their own lives than the general population. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, it is estimated that between 2017 and 2020, the suicide rate of veterans was 1.57 to 1.66 times higher in comparison to those who hadn’t served. The purpose of the crisis hotline is to reduce these rates.
“One veteran lost to suicide is one too many,” said Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis McDonough. “We’re supporting more veterans than ever through the 988 initiative and will not rest in our continued efforts to spread the word that this resource is available and saves lives.”
Every veteran is affected by the time they spent serving the country. They may face challenges immediately after service or in the years to come. Some of these challenges include health issues, problems with finding employment, and struggles around accessing their benefits.
The transition from military service to civilian life isn’t easy. Having a little support from a caring, understanding individual and a safe space for veterans to share their experiences and feelings can go a long way toward empowering them for their future endeavors.
Over the past two years, the crisis hotline has fielded 1.64 million calls, texts, and online chats. Since its launch, the hotline has seen a 22.7 percent increase in calls per day.
Additionally, it has received 76.7 percent more texts and 27.5 percent more online chats per day during the same period.
The data shows that more veterans than ever are getting the help they need during times of crisis. The shortened phone number is easier to remember and allows veterans to connect to responders more quickly. In the past, a traditional phone number was used, which made it harder to remember and use.
wayhome.studio – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only, not the actual person
The Veterans Crisis Line has maintained an average call response time of 9.17 seconds. There are also options for Spanish-language talk, text, and chats.
Any veteran or veteran’s family member can dial the crisis line for confidential support all year round at any time of day or night.
The two-year anniversary of the crisis hotline represents a significant achievement in efforts to prevent suicide deaths among veterans through free, confidential support.
This year, the anniversary has occurred simultaneously with the 2024 VA/DOD Suicide Prevention Conference in Portland, Oregon. The event brings together over 2,000 allies, leaders, and experts across the nation.
Today, over 1,000 responders help veterans who seek support through the hotline. To reach responders, dial 988, then press 1, text 838255, or chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat.
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