MIRECC / CoE

Assessing Social and Community Environments with National Data (ASCEND) for Veteran Suicide Prevention is a survey research study designed to learn more about how many Veterans experience suicidal thoughts and behaviors, and what puts Veterans at risk for suicide and protects them from suicidal thinking and behavior. Findings will be used to improve suicide prevention programs for Veterans and to build new suicide prevention initiatives, both in the VA and within the communities where Veterans live.

We designed ASCEND to understand the experiences and perspectives of Veterans from ALL backgrounds. We invite Veterans from every part of the U.S., from all age groups and service eras, and to include those using and not using VA services. We will invite Veterans with and without suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
We have selected a representative group of Veterans that reflects this diversity, and therefore cannot substitute one invited Veteran for another.

Data collection for the second national wave of ASCEND is underway. Participation in ASCEND is by invitation only in order to ensure that we receive input from Veterans all across the U.S.

All information obtained from ASCEND will be protected and kept confidential. Information will be summarized across all participants and will not be used to identify any specific Veterans at increased risk for suicide. Survey responses will be used for research purposes only and will not impact your healthcare or eligibility for any community or VA services. Data from ASCEND will NOT be included in your medical records.

By sharing your experiences, you will contribute to improving existing services and creating new programs that will help save Veterans’ lives locally, regionally, and nationally. Your contribution ensures that all Veterans are heard, understood, and served equitably with effective suicide prevention programs that bring hope and better quality of life.

On average, the survey will take 30 minutes to complete and you will be compensated $5 for your participation.

NORC at the University of Chicago is working with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Rocky Mountain MIRECC for Veteran Suicide Prevention to conduct this study. NORC is a non-profit research institution at the University of Chicago. This study is funded by the VA Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention.

Email ASCENDstudy@va.gov if you have any questions. Please note, this email address is only monitored during business hours.