VBH Battle Buddies are veterans with basic mental health training who can be there for their friends and are equipped to know the difference between a bad day and a situation that requires professional help.
Like first aid training, Battle Buddies are not seeking people to help but are tuned in enough and are prepared to know what someone in their life may need backup.
The Battle Buddy program is an upstream suicide prevention effort, aiming to reduce veteran suicide by training others recognize when their fellow veterans need a sympathetic ear, help navigating a period of transition, or connection to medical assistance. “The biggest thing I think we can do is listen to someone,” Gunter said. “You don’t have to have the answer, just sit there and listen, let them get it out.”
The introductory Battle Buddy training can be completed in one hour. To become a Battle Buddy, follow these instructions below.
Enroll in and complete one suicide prevention course that looks interesting, then sign up for another.
Share this invitation with your network(s). Each of us plays a role in suicide prevention, and we want to grow our tribe across the Carolinas!
