Preventing Veteran Suicide by Combating Stigma Training

Registration: https://www.eventsquid.com/event.cfm?event_id=28261

This session will explore the critical issue of stigma surrounding mental health and suicide with the Service Member, Veteran, and Family (SMVF) community. Stigma remains a significant barrier to seeking help, contributing to isolation, misinformation, and lack of access to essential mental health services. The training focuses on understanding the types of stigmas – self, public, and institutional – how stigma impacts mental health, and practical steps to reduce its presence. Participants will engage in meaningful discussion to challenge and address stigma, foster supportive peer networks, and promote help-seeking behavior.

Through interactive breakout sessions and guided discussions, attendees will have the opportunity to explore the emotional and cultural factors that contribute to stigma, identify barriers to mental health care within the military community, and develop actionable strategies for creating a more supportive and empathetic environment. This training aims to empower participants to take an active role in reducing stigma and supporting suicide prevention efforts in their communities. The goal is to foster resilience, normalize conversations about mental health, and reduce the risk of suicide by promoting early intervention and a strong network of support.