As Suicide Prevention Month comes to a close, mental health advocates say awareness efforts must continue, particularly as veteran suicide remains a nationwide crisis. An average of 17 veterans died by suicide each day in 2023, according to the 2025 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Repo rt from the Department of Veterans Affairs. Mental health experts and organizations such as the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) say recognizing warning signs and simply reaching out can make a life-saving difference. Finding hope through connection Chante Franco, a U.S. Army veteran and WWP advocate, survived two suicide attempts. Today, she shares her story to help fellow veterans facing similar struggles. “It’s about community and it’s about connection,” Franco said. “And I honestly believe that connection saves lives.” Franco said she has lost friends to suicide after they left military service and hopes speaking openly about her experiences will encourage others to seek support. After losing friends, Franco said she struggled with feelings of confusion and guilt, often wondering whether she could have done something differently. Franco said she believes more open conversations about mental health are essential, especially those addressing difficult topics that many people are hesitant to discuss. “My husband has been an important factor in helping me because he never gave up trying to connect,” Franco said. “Even when I wasn’t reciprocating because I felt like I was a burden, he never stopped reaching out. Eventually, it got through to me.” Connecting with others who had faced similar challenges, or who were further along in their healing journeys, played a critical role in her recovery, Franco reflected. When supporting someone who may be struggling, she emphasized that the goal is not to solve their problems. “You’re not there to fix it,” Franco said. “You’re simply opening a door so help can be received.” Resources and support Lindsay Gray, WWP’s suicide prevention manager, said addressing suicide risk requires looking at the whole person and ensuring veterans have access to support systems that strengthen both mental health and overall well-being. “We want communities to talk about suicide in a more open and honest way,” Gray said, adding that reducing stigma is a key part of prevention efforts. Gray said WWP works to connect veterans, active-duty service members and caregivers with programs and services that address both risk factors and protective factors associated with suicide. For those looking to help someone in crisis, Gray recommends listening with empathy, remaining curious and nonjudgmental, and creating a safe space for conversation. “It’s really about holding space for people,” Gray said. “That can help them begin to think through other options and alternatives.” Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis can call or text 988, the national Suicide Crisis Lifeline. Veterans can press 1 to connect directly with the Veterans Crisis Line. Those who prefer texting can also reach the Crisis Text Line by texting 741741. WWP encourages veterans, service members and caregivers seeking ongoing support to visit their website to learn more about available programs and resources. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or chat live at 988lifeline.org. You can also visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional support. ...read more read less