Join Derrick & Friends TONIGHT for "Suicide Awareness!" Discussion with Warriors for Life (WFL)

Col (Ret) Mikel Burroughs
Sep 16
2 min read

Join our Volunteer, Army Veteran & Peer Support Specialist/Supervisor Derrick Iozzio filling in for Steven Bates TONIGHT for "Mid-Week Musings!" edition of Warriors for Life (WFL) Online, sponsored and presented by Victory for Veterans, Inc. (VFV).

We are asking everyone to share who we are and what support that Victory for Veterans, Inc. (VFV) is providing via WFL. If you know someone who is a veteran, first responder or a family member/caregiver, please ask them to join us for at least one meeting so they can learn more about what we do and how they can share their wisdom with others who may be able to learn from them.

TONIGHT's Topic: "Suicide Awareness!"

Join Derrick and Friends TONIGHT as we talk about "Suicide Awareness!" A discussion on how to address suicide awareness. It is important to understand the complex factors contributing to suicide, recognize the warning signs, know how to help someone at risk, and appreciate the wider impact on communities.

Suicide is often a result of various stressors and health issues converging into an experience of hopelessness.

Factors contributing to suicide

There is no single cause for suicide, but certain factors can increase risk. Understanding these risk factors can help identify those who may be vulnerable.

Mental health conditions: Conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, and substance use problems are often associated with suicidal thoughts. In fact, most people who die by suicide have a mental health issue, which is sometimes undiagnosed.
Past trauma: A history of trauma, abuse, or neglect during childhood can be a risk factor.
Previous attempts: A history of previous suicide attempts significantly increases the risk of future attempts.
Life events: Major stressful life events can be a tipping point. These include the loss of a loved one, a relationship breakup, harassment, bullying, financial troubles, or job loss.
Lack of social support: Social isolation and feelings of loneliness can contribute to a higher risk.
Easy access to lethal means: The availability of firearms or stockpiled pills can increase risk.
Physical health problems: Chronic physical illnesses or chronic pain are also linked to an increased risk.

Suicide Awareness – Signs and Symptoms

Our emotions can be so strong that they disrupt our daily lives. Sometimes this makes life seem very overwhelming. Someone struggling with their emotions might start to have feelings of worthlessness or start to wish they didn’t exist. When these overwhelming emotions snowball, the person can feel so trapped that they think there is no way out. This can lead to thoughts of ending their own life.

It is important for both the individual experiencing these thoughts and feelings, and those around them to know the warning signs of suicide and act on ways to help. Learn about suicide awareness now to save a life.

5 Action Steps for Helping Somone in Emotional Pain

Warriors for Life (WFL) Online "Mid-Week Musings!" edition presented by Victory for Veterans, Inc. (VFV) — Wednesday (TONIGHT), September 17, 2025, @ 4:30 PM PT, 5:30 PM MT, 6:30 PM CT, & 7:30 PM ET

Join Zoom Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87440882846

Thank you,

Derrick Iozzio,

Army Veteran, Peer Support Specialist/Supervisor, Catch 22 Peer Support Founder, & Volunteer Facilitator, Victory for Veterans, Inc. (VFV)