There is an epidemic of suicide among America’s service members and Veterans. In the United States general population, there are approximately 36,909 suicides per year, which is the 10th leading cause of death (with homicide following at the 15th leading cause of death with 16,799 per year). Twenty percent of U.S. suicides are Veterans (National Violent Death Reporting System).
The Veterans Administration has implemented Operation S.A.V.E., which stands for:
S: signs of suicidal ideation (thoughts of suicide);
A: ask the question – “Are you thinking of killing yourself?” or “Are you considering suicide?”;
V: validate the person’s experience without judgment; and
E: encourage treatment.
Women attempt suicide three times more than men; however, men complete suicide at a rate of four times that of women. White men are the highest risk, followed by Native Americans. Moreover, as a person ages, specifically over the age of 65, the increased risk for suicide becomes eight times greater. The highest rates of suicide are found among people in their mid-life years. This is often linked to isolation after retirement or death of a spouse. People must find a way to stay connected to extended family, friends, and their community.
This is especially relevant for estate planning and elder care attorneys. Depression among the elderly frequently goes undiagnosed. However, when a person is isolated, becomes depressed, and lives alone in their home, the motivation and situation are ripe for suicide. When conducting a consultation for an estate plan, clients may express feelings of hopelessness and the desire to die. Take that opportunity to discuss whether they have been diagnosed with depression and whether they plan on accelerating their death through suicide. Also ask if the person has any weapons at home. If so, encourage them to be removed and kept in safe keeping with a family member.
People who commit suicide may not appear depressed. Other warning signs may include anger, anxiety, increased use of alcohol or drugs, or risky behavior showing ambivalence as to life or death.
Estate planning involves more than just preparing documents. It also includes listening and counseling with clients to determine what their needs are and whether they have any underlying issues that need to be addressed. Likewise, elder care planning means more than asset preservation and Medicaid planning. A person’s health may stabilize or improve if the underlying cause of decline is addressed (i.e. depression).
Lawyers With Purpose members are trained in advanced communication skills to help identify clients’ needs, desires, and core issues. We all have the ability to save a life if we are willing to listen and ask the right questions. When you identify Veterans who may need assistance, provide them with the Veteran’s Crisis Line: 800-273-8255, or www.mentalhealth.va.gov; www.vetcenter.va.gov (readjustment therapy for combat veterans), or www.PTSD.va.gov.
Victoria L. Collier, Certified Elder Law Attorney, Fellow of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Co-Founder, Lawyers with Purpose, LLC, and author of 47 Secret Veterans’ Benefits for Seniors…Benefits You Have Earned but Don’t Know About.
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