In recognition of September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month (SPM) the Defense Suicide Prevention Office (DSPO) created a 2023 Suicide Prevention Awareness Month Toolkit in support of the larger Department of Defense (DOD) suicide prevention campaign Connect to Protect: Support is Within Reach. The toolkit is a collection of campaign tools, resources, and graphics for use in all outreach efforts in September and all year. A comprehensive communication campaign is created when the same messaging and resources are used at the local and national levels.
The SPM Outreach Toolkit consists of:
Social Media Content: posts, story graphics, photo frame, banners
Sample Language Tools: public service announcement (PSA), blog, press release
Campaign Tools: pledge, poster, Connect to Protect fact sheet, campaign-style sheet, virtual background
Guides: Leaders Safe Messaging Guide, Means Safety for Military Service Members and Their Families, Your Words Matter Fact Sheet
Who may use the kit:
This toolkit is designed for organizations and communities that will be creating and promoting a SPM campaign. When the SPM campaign promoted across the Services is designed around one message, the message is more likely to resonate. The toolkit is a framework and consists of samples for communities to build on or even use as inspiration for additional creative ideas.
How to use the kit:
The toolkit provides materials to aid in planning an SPM campaign for local installations and the community. Follow the links for the items in the toolkit. Below is a table of the materials.
Promote and protect:
We encourage everyone to promote the campaign Connect to Protect: Support is Within Reach. Use the toolkit as is or use it as a jumping-off point. The goal is a cohesive campaign message to create awareness. If you're communicating on social media, use the following hashtags to join the conversation: #ConnectToProtect, #SPM23, and #BeThere. Don’t forget to tag us!
Tools:
Social Media Content