The D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families at Syracuse University hosts a monthly webinar series designed to bring the most up to date research, resources, and experts to our audience on a wide variety of topics addressing transition challenges and opportunities. On July 7, 2022, the IVMF brought together a panel of experts to discuss mental health through research. The event drew a record number of registrations with over 600 for a single IVMF webinar. A diverse audience included the Syracuse University military-connected population, Community of Practice participants, and IVMF Funders. Syracuse University’s Dr. Ken Marfilius led as moderator for a discussion with Dr. Joe Geraci from the VA, Garra Lloyd-Lester from the Suicide Prevention Center of NYS and Blayne Smith from the George W. Bush Institute.

Veteran suicide is a national public health issue, with more than 6,000 veterans dying by suicide in 2019 and with prevention a top priority for many veteran service organizations and the Department of Veterans Affairs. During the webinar several topics were covered related to veteran suicide, including:

• What can be triaged now to help those before an active crisis
• What we know about stressors and protective factors related to mental illness and veteran suicide
• How we can support those in the veteran and military family community to focus on mental wellness and lead healthier lives
• Understand the role that everyone has to play in veteran suicide prevention

To ensure these stories are shared and the information is made available to the public the IVMF has posted this webinar for individuals to watch for the first time or to re-watch on YouTube, here.

If you or someone you know are in crisis or have thoughts of suicide, contact the National Suicide Prevention Line for 24/7 support: Call 988 or chat online at SuicidePreventionLifeline.org/chat