Crisis line offers confidential help

  • Published
  • By Terri Moon Cronk
  • American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON (AFPS) --  WASHINGTON (AFPS) -- Getting help for service members and their families in crisis today is imperative, said a Military Crisis Line responder.

Tricia Lucchesi said callers use the Military Crisis Line, also known at the Veterans Crisis Line, to discuss suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety and other topics.
"We stay on the phone as long as it takes," Lucchesi said. "We'll do whatever we need to get them help."

Callers will receive a follow-up call from a suicide prevention coordinator with 24 hours of their first crisis line call, and a follow-up call 10 days later to keep them connected with needed services, Lucchesi said.

The crisis line is the result of collaboration between the Defense and Veterans Affairs departments, Lucchesi said.

"The [departments] are working closely together to create a system to assist our members without them having to worry about their careers or confidentiality," she said.
Crisis line responders stay on the phone with a caller until a safety plan for their needs is tailored. This plan typically involves callers committing to seeking help through various resources, Lucchesi said.

"We're here 24/7 and we never want anyone to feel alone," she said. "(Callers) don't have to sit in emotional turmoil all by themselves."

For several years, the DOD has worked to remove the perceived stigma attached to seeking mental health help, which has resulted in increased use of the crisis line, Lucchesi said.

"People who have used the line have learned we're not just going to send rescue out to them," Lucchesi said. "They can call here for all kinds of reasons, and if they can [set up a] safety plan, they don't have to worry about a policeman or emergency services showing up at their door."

To reach the crisis line, call 1-800-273-8255, text 838255, or visit www.veteranscrisisline.net/ActiveDuty.aspx.

Academy members may call Life skills at 333-5177 or Family Advocacy at 333-5270 for assistance.