SMVF TA: Preventing Suicide Among American Indian and Alaska Native Service Members, Veterans, and their Families

Facilitated and Funded by SAMHSA and SMVF TA Center

American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) people have a proud and exemplary tradition of military service, consistently serving at one of the highest per-capita rates of any ethnic group in the United States. This dedication and sacrifice, however, have come at a significant cost. According to U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) data, AIAN Veterans are among the groups most heavily impacted by suicide. 

To address this urgent issue, the VA has partnered with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to host a webinar learning series, bringing together champions for the health and well-being of AIAN Service Members, Veterans, and their Families (SMVF) for a dedicated time of learning, sharing, and collaboration. 

Learning Objectives

• Expand knowledge of AIAN suicide prevention best practices, military culture, and available resources 

• Inspire culturally responsive practice improvements and innovative approaches to AIAN SMVF suicide prevention

• Build participant capacity by sharing practical tools, frameworks, and real-world examples that support effective implementation of AIAN SMVF suicide prevention strategies 

Registration:

Participation in the Learning Series is open to Native and Tribal community leaders, advocates, and service providers committed to supporting the health and well-being of AIAN SMVF. By registering, you’ll gain access to expert-led sessions and practical strategies that can strengthen suicide prevention efforts in your community.

Register at tinyurl.com/smvftraining

Session 1: The Healing Power of Stories – Digital Storytelling with Veterans

Date: March 12, 2026  Time: 2:00–3:00 p.m. ET

Discover how storytelling can foster healing, connection, and resilience among Veterans. 

Session 2: Understanding the Need: Insights from Rural and Urban Data

Date: April 9, 2026 Time: 2:00–3:00 p.m. ET

Learn how data can inform culturally responsive suicide prevention strategies and ways to overcome its limitations. 

Session 3: Someone to Call – A Lifeline for Indigenous People

Date: May 14, 2026 Time: 2:00–3:00 p.m. ET

Explore how dedicated crisis lines provide culturally grounded support and a vital lifeline for Indigenous communities. 

Session 4:  From the Field – Approaches to Preventing Veteran Suicide in Tribal Communities

Date: June 11, 2026 Time: 2:00–3:00 p.m. ET

Hear firsthand accounts of innovative, community-driven approaches to suicide prevention in Tribal communities.