Purple Note Veteran Project

The risk of suicide is tragically high in the months following a veteran’s discharge. For too many, the isolation and the invisible scars of war become unbearable. But the truth is, you don’t have to go through this alone. Whether you’ve been out for months, years, or even just days, we want to remind you that your story doesn’t have to end here.

One of the hardest parts of leaving military service is adjusting to a life that feels so different from the one you’ve known. The camaraderie, the structure, and the sense of purpose can be hard to replace, and many veterans feel lost, alone, and disconnected from the civilian world. It’s no wonder that so many veterans face intense emotional struggles during this time. For some, these challenges lead to suicidal thoughts.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a heavy burden many veterans carry. Flashbacks, anxiety, depression, and the ongoing fight to maintain stability can make everyday life feel like a battle. It’s important to know that what you’re experiencing is not a weakness—it’s a response to what you’ve been through. There’s no shame in having PTSD or reaching out for help.

We provide emotional support through letters written by individuals who understand the weight of your struggles. These letters are here to remind you that there are people who see you, value you, and care about your well-being. Whether you’re navigating the darkest days of PTSD or just need a kind word, we’re here for you.

The statistics are heartbreaking: many veterans take their own lives after returning home, overwhelmed by the emotional pain, isolation, and unresolved trauma. If you’re thinking about suicide, know this: your life matters.

You’ve survived battles, and you deserve the chance to heal. There are people who care deeply about your safety, your future, and your well-being. Reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness—it’s a brave step toward living a life where you feel supported and valued

The Purple Note Project is built on the proven success of the Caring Letters intervention, a suicide prevention strategy developed by Dr. Jerome Motto in the 1970s. His groundbreaking research demonstrated that regular, non-demanding communication, such as handwritten letters, can significantly reduce suicide rates among individuals at high risk. This simple yet powerful approach offers emotional connection and a sense of care, helping to reduce feelings of isolation.

The effectiveness of caring letters has been supported by multiple studies over decades:

A 50% reduction in suicide rates was observed in individuals receiving regular letters compared to those who did not.

The intervention led to a 44% decrease in suicidal ideation and a 48% decrease in suicide attempts in military populations.

These findings highlight the powerful effect of consistent, personal connection in reducing suicide risk, which forms the foundation of the Purple Note Project.