El Paso clinic launches suicide prevention campaign

EL PASO, Texas — The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Endeavors is encouraging people to have difficult conversations as part of a suicide prevention campaign during September.

The clinic is participating in the Cohen Veterans Network's "Ask Anyway: Conversations to Save a Life" campaign, which aims to encourage people to check in with someone they are concerned about and ask directly if they are considering suicide.

Dr. Karina Bocanegra, clinic director, said during an ABC-7 interview that some people worry that asking someone about suicide could make the situation worse.

"Research shows quite the opposite, that asking can save a life," Bocanegra said.

Bocanegra said the campaign is particularly important for the military community because veterans face a higher suicide rate than civilians.

The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic provides mental health services to active-duty service members with a TRICARE referral.

Bocanegra said financial assistance is available for copays and that the clinic works to ensure cost is not a barrier to receiving care.

The Endeavors facility also offers other programs serving members of the community, including first responders and Border Patrol agents.

Bocanegra encouraged anyone struggling or experiencing a crisis to seek help.

"Just know that you're not alone," she said.

People experiencing a mental health crisis can call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which is available 24 hours a day.