Military & VeteransYou should inquire about depression and suicidal ideation with any patient who has been deployed. Suicidal ideation should always be taken seriously. Notify your patient’s behavioral health provider if he/she expresses signs of depression or thoughts of suicide. Or call the VA's suicide hotline:
- Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 1-800-273-8255 and press 1.
Alternatively, report your patient to your emergency department, take your patient to the nearest emergency room, or call 911.
Watch Dr. Wendy Law as she asks a veteran with concussion/mTBI about suicidal thoughts:
Suicidal Ideation
During a case history, it is crucial to listen carefully to service members and vets about possible thoughts of suicide.