VA S.A.V.E. is a training program created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to help recognize and respond to veterans at risk for suicide. The acronym stands for:

S: Signs of suicide risk
A: Ask the individual about thoughts of suicide
V: Validate the experience by acknowledging the individual’s feelings
E: Encourage appropriate professional help and resources

The goal of VA S.A.V.E. is to empower people—especially those working in environments where veterans might seek help or services—to be aware of the signs of suicide risk and take appropriate actions to support the veteran’s mental health and well-being.

The training focuses on helping individuals confidently intervene, offer support, and connect veterans to the right resources to prevent suicide.

Complete that training to decrease stress, increase support, decrease isolation and crisis.

The training is available with Sondermind University.