From Acting DHA Director, Dr. David Smith: Suicide Prevention

Posted on May 24, 2025 Updated on May 17, 2025

Teammates,

Suicide remains a leading cause of death in the United States, and an enduring challenge within the Department of Defense.

Within our military communities, we know that challenges like deployments, family separation, financial stressors, combat experiences, the transition to civilian life, and workload can significantly impact mental and emotional well-being.

I want to reinforce a crucial message: Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

The federal government, the Department of Defense, and the Military Health System have developed resources and tools to help individuals and families with managing their mental health. We’ve made important strides in breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health care and ensuring you and those we serve have access to all available resources.

This email outlines the many resources available to you, your family, your team members, and our patient population.

Immediate support (if you or someone you know is in crisis):

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call, text, or chat 988 anytime for immediate, confidential support.
• Military Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1, text 838255, or chat at https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/.
• Emergency Services: If you feel you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Behavioral health resources:

• inTransition Program: Provides confidential, specialized support for service members, veterans, and their families seeking mental healthcare.
• Psychological Health Resource Center (PHRC): Offers information and resources on psychological health concerns for service members, veterans, and their families.
• Military OneSource: Provides a wide range of free and confidential resources, including counseling, financial assistance, and legal support, in addition to TRICARE services.
• Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR): Offers recreational activities and programs that can promote well-being and build social connections.
• Chaplains:  Provide confidential counseling and spiritual guidance.
• Substance Use Disorder Programs:  Offers support and treatment for substance use disorders.
• TRICARE Mental Health Services: Information about mental health coverage and finding providers.

Supporting a Teammate:

If you notice a teammate struggling, here’s how you can help:

• Start a private conversation: Let them know you’re concerned and available to listen without judgment. Show empathy and create a safe space for them to share. Sometimes, simply listening and validating their feelings can make a significant difference.
• Encourage professional help: Suggest they consider speaking with a Military and Family Life Counselor (MFLC) or a mental health professional. Reassure them that seeking help is a sign of strength.
• Emphasize confidentiality: Remind them that many resources offer confidential support.
• Offer resource suggestions: Share information about financial counseling, behavioral health, the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) (see more information below), or chaplain services.
• Promote the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Remind them that immediate help is available 24/7 by calling, texting, or chatting 988.
• Follow up: Check in with your teammate regularly to see how they are doing and offer ongoing support.
• Be brave: Don’t be afraid to alert their chain of command, family, or someone else in a position to influence them to seek help.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

The DHA offers a confidential EAP for civilians, managed by Magellan Ascend Federal, which is available 24/7/365 at 866-580-9046. Contact them for support with:

• Counseling Services: Addressing financial issues, legal concerns (estate planning, family law, etc.), and credit restoration.
• Senior Care Management: Assessing caregiving needs and recommending appropriate solutions.
• Online Programs: Accessing self-guided programs for stress management, resilience building, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and substance misuse.
• Monthly Live Webinars: Participating in free webinars on relevant topics. Recordings are available on the Magellan Ascend website within 10 business days.

One life lost to suicide is too many. We are all in this together. Please look after yourselves and your teammates. 

V/R Dave

David J.  Smith, M.D.

Acting Director, Defense Health Agency