In a compelling interview, Samantha Szlembarski, an Iraq combat veteran and current suicide case manager for the VA in Iowa, shares her journey from military service to social work. I am speaking at the VA/DOD Veteran Suicide Conference in Portland, Oregon. As a Vietnam veteran Let me tell you why.
A major, yet preventable health problem in the U.S. is suicide. Sadly, Veterans comprise nearly a quarter of suicide deaths in the U.S The VA estimates that 22 veterans commit suicide each day. This means approximately 8,030 veterans kill themselves every year.
We need to do more than say thank you for your service. Find a way, anyway, to get involved to help a veteran transition to a meaningful life.
Samantha Szlembarski, better known as Sam Ski, is an Iraq combat veteran who has dedicated her life to reduce and hopefully prevent veteran suicide. She works for the VA in Iowa as a suicide case manager.
Meet the Guest: Samantha Szlembarski
Samantha Szlembarski (pronounced Shlem-bar-ski) served as a Human Intelligence Collector in the U.S. Army, deployed to Iraq in 2008, where she contributed to Detainee Operations at Camp Cropper. Following her military service, Samantha continued her interests in intelligence work by supporting 3rd and 7th group special forces in Afghanistan as a HUMINT analyst from 2012-2014.
Samantha encountered unexpected challenges upon transitioning to civilian life. Despite her aspirations to continue a career in intelligence, she faced limitations due to the effects of PTSD. Determined to continue serving her country, Samantha shifted her focus and pursued a Master’s in Social Work.
Since then, Samantha has dedicated herself to serving veterans. She began her social work career as a case manager, assisting homeless veterans in securing stable housing. Currently, Samantha works as a Suicide Prevention Case Manager in Iowa, where she leverages her experiences and expertise to provide crucial support to veterans in crisis. Additionally, she plays a key role in educating new staff on how to effectively handle veterans in crisis. Samantha also advocates for LGBTQ+ veterans and serves as a board member for Iowa City Pride.
🔑 Key Takeaways
1. Develop a Safety Plan: Identify protective factors to counteract suicidal thoughts, such as engaging in enjoyable activities and reaching out to a support network.
2. Seek Help and Support: Utilize resources like the VA, Vet Centers, peer support groups, or private providers through the Choice program.
3. Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about PTSD, its triggers, and the importance of recognizing and addressing suicidal thoughts within the crucial one-hour window.
4. Foster Open Communication: Create a supportive environment for veterans to share their experiences without judgment, promoting understanding and mental health awareness.
5. Advocate for Veteran Mental Health: Push for increased awareness and resources for veteran mental health and suicide prevention efforts.
💡 Discussion Points
✔️ The Role of Gender in Military Operations: How did Samantha's gender influence her interactions with detainees and colleagues in Iraq?
✔️ Translating Military Skills to Civilian Roles: In what ways do military interrogation techniques enhance Samantha's effectiveness as a social worker?
✔️ Understanding PTSD: What are the common triggers of PTSD, and how can they be managed?
✔️ Suicide Prevention Strategies: What are the most effective strategies for recognizing and addressing suicidal thoughts in veterans?
✔️ Support Systems for Veterans: How can veterans and their families build robust support systems to aid in mental health and well-being.
🎯 Here are some sobering statistics:
- 18-22 veterans tragically take their own lives each day.
- Two-thirds of these veterans are over the age of 50.
- Veterans make up 1 in every 5 suicides in the United States.
- The documentary Echoes from Afghanistan highlights that the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine unit lost 27 members to suicide.
- 73% of veteran suicides involve firearms, which have an 85% fatality rate. In comparison, other lethal means like pills or carbon monoxide have a 5% death rate.
- Each suicide adversely impacts 135 people.
Watch Full Episode
Resources:
Support for Veterans: Samantha emphasizes the numerous resources available to veterans, including the Veterans Crisis Line (988 Press 1), text and chat options, and the Choice program for care outside the VA. She stresses the importance of reaching out for help, whether through the VA, Vet Centers, or other support groups, and underscores the vital role of peer support specialists and advocates.
In conclusion, Samantha's journey from military service to social work is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of veterans. Her insights into PTSD, suicide prevention, and the importance of support systems are invaluable resources for anyone seeking to understand and support veterans better. Let's take her advice to heart and work together to create a supportive and understanding environment for all veterans.
