Sometimes, even the smallest act has the power to change a life.

That’s the message that the Kane County Veterans Assistance Commission is sharing during the month of September, which is recognized as Suicide Prevention Month.

“We would like veterans to know that there is help out there,” said Jake Zimmerman, superintendent of the Kane County VAC. “There are many resources through the VA including social workers and mental health professionals at the local VA clinics and the large VA hospitals and also at the Vet Centers. Locally, we have a clinic in Elgin and North Aurora and a Vet Center in Aurora. There is also a dedicated hotline for veterans who are experiencing a crisis.”

To reach the Veterans Crisis Line, dial 1-800-273-8255. You can also have a confidential chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net or simply text 838255.

To someone going through a difficult time, one simple act has the power to make a difference. Reach out to the veterans and service members in your life today — let them know that they’re not alone.

About the Veterans Crisis Line

The caring responders at the Veterans Crisis Line are specially trained and experienced in helping Veterans of all ages and circumstances. Some of the responders are Veterans themselves and understand what Veterans and their families and friends have been through and the challenges Veterans of all ages and service eras face.

Since its launch in 2007, the Veterans Crisis Line has answered more than 1.86 million calls and made more than 50,000 lifesaving rescues. In 2009, the Veterans Crisis Line added an anonymous online chat service and has engaged in more than 240,000 chats. In November 2011, the Veterans Crisis Line introduced a text-messaging service to provide another way for Veterans to connect with confidential, round-the-clock support, and since then has responded to more than 39,000 texts.

In 2011, the National Veterans Suicide Prevention Hotline was renamed the Veterans Crisis Line to encourage Veterans and their families and friends to make the call. People who know a Veteran best may be the first to recognize emotional distress and reach out for support when issues reach a crisis point — and well before a Veteran is at risk of suicide.

To make sure all Veterans and their loved ones are aware of the Veterans Crisis Line, VA is coordinating with communities and partners nationwide to let Veterans and their loved ones know that support is available whenever, if ever, they need it.