Identify Service Members, Veterans and their families (SMVF) and screen for suicide risk

The first priority area for team Washington State is identifying SMVF and screening for suicide risk. For suicide prevention and awareness initiatives to be effective, it is essential to first recognize the individuals we serve, as well as those who may be at risk or in need of support. We want to enhance the frequency with which providers utilize a standardized set of screening questions. This includes asking the question, "Have you or a family member ever served in the military?" followed by assessing for suicide risk.

Why Ask The Question:

Healthcare professionals often interact with SMVF, but these individuals may not always reveal their military status. Veterans might take pride in their experiences and present a stoic demeanor, often feeling more at ease in assisting others rather than seeking help for themselves. They may downplay the impact of their military service on their health, potentially resulting in overlooked diagnoses and inadequate treatment. The only effective way to uncover their military background and its connection to their health is to simply ASK?

Care for those who serve by:

• Establishing essential rapport with a reluctant patient who has served.
• Comprehending the link between military experiences and medical symptoms.
• Collaborating effectively with military-Veteran healthcare providers.

Resources for Providers:

• Ask The Question Provider Toolkit (insert link)
• Healthcare Provider Pocket Card (insert link)
• Suicide Risk Screener – Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS)
• The Lighthouse Project - The Columbia Lighthouse Project
• Legislature Involved
  • RCW 18.130.440: Educational materials on nationwide 988 phone number—Veterans crisis line and resources. (wa.gov)
  • H.R.1324 - 117th Congress (2021-2022): Effective Suicide Screening and Assessment in the Emergency Department Act of 2021 | Congress.gov | Library of Congress
  • https://www.va.gov/Communitycare/providers/info-EmergencyCare.asp
• WDVA Trainings 
• Ask The Question Lunch & Learn (insert link)