Open AccessUsing Science to Improve Communications About Suicide Among Military and Veteran Populations: Looking for a Few Good Messages
Author(s) -
Linda Langford,
David A. Litts,
Jane L. Pearson
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
american journal of public health
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.284
H-Index - 264
eISSN - 1541-0048
pISSN - 0090-0036
DOI - 10.2105/ajph.2012.300905
Subject(s) - suicide prevention , poison control , human factors and ergonomics , injury prevention , public health , public relations , occupational safety and health , medicine , military personnel , psychology , computer security , medical emergency , political science , nursing , computer science , law , pathology
Concern about suicide in US military and veteran populations has prompted efforts to identify more effective prevention measures. Recent expert panel reports have recommended public communications as one component of a comprehensive effort. Messaging about military and veteran suicide originates from many sources and often does not support suicide prevention goals or adhere to principles for developing effective communications. There is an urgent need for strategic, science-based, consistent messaging guidance in this area. Although literature on the effectiveness of suicide prevention communications for these populations is lacking, this article summarizes key findings from several bodies of research that offer lessons for creating safe and effective messages that support and enhance military and veteran suicide prevention efforts.