Veteran Suicide

Veteran suicide is one of the most urgent and heartbreaking challenges facing the United States today. Every day, veterans across America struggle with invisible wounds from their service. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, more than 17 veterans die by suicide each day, while independent research from America’s Warrior Partnership estimates the number may be as high as 44 veteran suicides per day.

Veteran suicide is not just a statistic. It is a national crisis that impacts military families, friends, communities, and generations to come.

At Red Star Foundation, our mission is clear: prevent veteran suicide, save lives, and support the families forever changed by loss. We do this through awareness, peer-to-peer support, and national initiatives focused on real solutions.

Why Veteran Suicide Happens

Veteran suicide is complex and often driven by multiple overlapping factors. Understanding these causes is critical to prevention. Common contributors to veteran suicide include:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
• Depression, anxiety, and moral injury
• Chronic pain and service-related disabilities
• Difficulties transitioning from military to civilian life
• Social isolation and lack of trusted support networks

By addressing these root causes, veteran suicide prevention programs can intervene earlier and more effectively.

Red Star Foundation’s Role in Preventing Veteran Suicide

The Red Star Foundation is committed to ending veteran suicide through innovative, veteran-centered programs and national awareness efforts. Our work focuses on prevention, connection, and honoring the lives lost.

Red Star Pledge

A personal commitment veterans make to seek help and talk to someone before making an irreversible decision. The pledge reinforces that every veteran’s life has value.

Red Star Service Banner & Pin

Visible symbols of remembrance and recognition for families who have lost a loved one to veteran suicide, helping reduce stigma and spark conversations that save lives.

Together, these initiatives create a powerful safety net for veterans and their families while advancing veteran suicide prevention nationwide.

How You Can Help Prevent Veteran Suicide

Ending veteran suicide requires community action. You can make a difference today by:

• Taking the Red Star Pledge and encouraging others to do the same
• Supporting Red Star Families who have lost a loved one to veteran suicide
• Donating to expand veteran suicide prevention outreach and crisis response programs
• Volunteering as a peer supporter or advocate
• Spreading awareness about veteran suicide prevention on social media and in your community

Your involvement directly helps save veterans’ lives.

Resources for Veterans in Crisis

If you are a veteran in crisis, or know a veteran who may be struggling, immediate help is available:

• Dial 988, then press 1 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line
• Text 838255 to connect with a trained responder
• Visit your local VA facility or community crisis center for urgent support

You are not alone. Help is available right now.

Join the Fight Against Veteran Suicide

At the Red Star Foundation, we believe that every veteran’s life matters. By standing together, raising awareness, and supporting proven veteran suicide prevention programs, we can reduce veteran suicide and bring hope to those who need it most.

Join us today and be part of the solution to end veteran suicide.