In this powerful and inspiring episode of VET S.O.S., hosts Shawn and Eric sit down with Kristen Christy, co-creator of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and America's resilience trainer. Kristen courageously shares her deeply personal journey growing up in a dedicated Air Force family, navigating the challenges of military life, and overcoming the tragic loss of her husband to suicide in 2008. This life-altering experience ignited Kristen's passion for mental health advocacy and suicide prevention.
Kristen offers a behind-the-scenes look into the creation and launch of the 988 Lifeline, a critical resource that went national in July 2022. Designed to provide accessible mental health support, the lifeline experienced a remarkable 35% increase in calls and a staggering 1,000% surge in text messages within its first year. Kristen discusses the importance of culturally competent care, especially for veterans and military families, and how the "Ask, Care, Escort" approach can be a life-saving intervention.
Additionally, Kristen introduces the National Veterans Vocational Village Foundation, which she co-founded in 2019. This innovative nonprofit organization is dedicated to building a supportive village in Colorado Springs that offers comprehensive vocational training and fosters a strong sense of community for veterans transitioning to civilian life. Kristen also shares the significance of the foundation's helicopter, tail number 39880, as a symbol of resilience and hope.
Throughout the episode, Kristen provides actionable insights on how resilience can be cultivated, the power of community support, and the vital need to openly discuss mental health and suicide prevention.
✨ Key Topics:
- Kristen's personal journey growing up in a military family and overcoming adversity
- Coping with the loss of her husband and becoming a Master Resilience Trainer
- The inspiration, development, and nationwide impact of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
- The mission and growth of the National Veterans Vocational Village Foundation
- Implementing the "Ask, Care, Escort" strategy for suicide prevention
- How to support veterans through vocational training and community involvement
👉 Connect with Kristen Christy: Website: https://www.kristenchristycares.com Call: 620-304-HOPE (4673)
📊 Action Items:
- Share and promote the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline to raise awareness.
- Volunteer or contribute to the National Veterans Vocational Village Foundation.
- Reach out to Kristen Christy for support, resources, and collaboration opportunities.
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