Suicide Prevention: Everyone's Responsibility

  • Published
  • By Airmen 1st Class Andrea Posey
  • 1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. --  Suicide prevention and awareness is always a top priority for the Air Force. However, the Air Force has dedicated September as Suicide Awareness Month to re-assert its commitment to the leading cause of death amongst service members.

"Suicide is something we discuss daily -- and some may think the work of suicide prevention is best left to the experts," said Master Sgt. Angelique French, 1st Special Operations Medical Operations Squadron Mental Health flight chief. "The truth is suicide prevention is everyone's job, regardless of our background or training."

Suicide prevention begins with a simple "hello," French said.

"Acknowledging someone's existence reinforces their sense of belonging," she said. "I challenge you to stop and notice those around you. Take time to talk to each other. Look at the Airmen next to you and ask yourself to spare five to 10 minutes to get to know them better."

As acknowledged by 1st Lt. Benjamin Garland, 1st Special Operations Medical Group mental health clinical social worker, suicide risk factors include relationship difficulties, mental health concerns, substance abuse, and previous suicidal attempts.

Financial problems, occupational difficulties, legal problems and family violence can increase the risk, Garland said.

"Suicidal behavior is not a normal response to stress and seeking help is a sign of strength," he said.

Garland recommends taking the following steps when dealing with a suicidal individual.

1. Ask about suicidal thoughts in a calm, direct way.

2. Care and actively listen to show understanding.

3. Escort to a chaplain, military family life consultant or a first sergeant.

The wingman culture emphasizes the importance of reaching out to others in need and enhancing prevention efforts by staying physically, spiritually, and mentally fit, Garland said.

"Taking time to treat each other with compassion, just as we would our own family members will improve our mutual well-being and reduce the incidence of suicide on base," French said. "If you are going through a stressful period, or know someone who is, talk to someone. Trust that someone in your Air Force family will help you."

For more information on suicide prevention, contact mental health at (850) 881-4237.