09/02/2026
SEPTEMBER IS SU***DE PREVENTION AWARENESS MONTH 🎗️
7 SIGNS A VETERAN MAY BE STRUGGLING
1. THEY STOP REACHING OUT TO THEIR BUDDIES.
Pay attention to this one.🎖️
These are often the same people they trusted with their life. The people who understand without needing an explanation.
Then the calls stop.
The texts get fewer.
Weeks become months.
Don’t assume they just want to be left alone. Reach out — and keep reaching out.
2. They lose interest in things they used to love — the gym, fishing, motorcycles, being outdoors.
3. They spend more time looking back than looking forward.
“Back when I was in…”
4. They’re simply trying to get through the week and living for the next distraction.
5. They begin isolating from friends and family.
6. They tell themselves they’re fine because other veterans “have it worse.”
7. They stop making plans because it’s becoming harder to see a future they’re excited about.
The difficult part? You may never know someone is struggling just by looking at them.
Veterans are trained to keep moving. Men are often taught to stay strong and handle things themselves.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
Check in — and keep checking in.
Ask, “Are you OK?” and really listen.
Invite them for coffee, a walk or just sit with them.
Help them connect with professional support.
If you’re worried about su***de, ask directly. Talking about su***de does not put the idea in someone’s head.
If you or someone you love is looking for mental health support in Ventura or throughout Ventura County, Stone Healing is here.
📍 Ventura, California
📞 805-393-5089
In a crisis, call or text 988.
Check on your people. Then check on them again.
***deprevention