Courage, communication key to suicide prevention

Suicide prevention is a vital step in promoting resilience, which aids in the overall prevention of psychological decompensation for our service members and their families, according to academic research. Worldwide suicide rates have increased by 60 percent over the past 47 years and was the 10th leading cause of death in the United States in 2010. These results illustrate the significance of suicide and the importance of preventing it. The suicide rate in the U.S. military has almost doubled from 2001 to 2011. There is a clear need for every individual to understand and identify those at risk for suicide and know how to appropriately intervene.

Several aspects of the military lifestyle can place service members and their loved ones at greater risk for psychological distress. These risk factors may include frequent deployments, lack of social support and a sense of isolation. Recognizing key risk factors or warning signs is important in identifying at-risk individuals, indicating a problem may be present. Several common risk factors include relationship problems, loss of loved ones, financial or legal problems, prolonged stress, work difficulties, substance misuse and a history of prior suicide attempts. Warning signs are usually more apparent and identified as a critical change in the individual. Several warning signs for suicide are mood changes, agitation, hopelessness, lack of interest, isolation, unexpected behavior changes, acting recklessly, and changes in alcohol use or abuse of drugs. It is important to understand that risk factors and warning signs do not cause suicides but are often present in those who attempt. When these are present, think of ways you can help the individual by providing them with appropriate resources and helping them build their social support system. Along with identifying risk factors, it is equally important to recognize protective factors. Essentially, protective factors help enhance resilience. Some of the more common protective factors are engagement in effective clinical care, easy access to resources, strong support system, regular exercise, healthy nutrition, developing effective problem-solving and coping skills, and finding purpose and meaning in life.

When someone you know is considering suicide or appears to be in significant distress, it is important to discuss concerns with the individual. Be open and honest and avoid judgement. Following the ACE model can help navigate a difficult situation. This model encompasses “Ask, Care and Escort.” Let the individual know you are there to listen and encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings. If you are concerned about suicide, ask if they have a specific suicide plan. If they do, it is important to not leave them alone. Create a safe environment by taking away weapons, substances or objects that they could potentially use to harm themselves. The next important step would be to escort them to a helping agency. Local helping agencies include the following: Mental Health Clinic at 06371-46-2390, Chaplain Service at 06371-47-2121, Military and Family Life Consultants at 0152-0266-3352 or 0152-2421-1233, the nearest emergency room, dialing 112, or National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. If the service member is unwilling to accept help, contact command or law enforcement.

September is Suicide Prevention Month, and the KMC has several important events to help spread awareness and support resiliency. A suicide prevention fair will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday at the Kaiserslautern Military Community Center on Ramstein and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 23 at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center. Additionally, individuals will present their personal stories regarding overcoming challenges from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sept. 28 at the Hercules Theater on Ramstein. Come support our fellow Airmen and their families for one or all of these events. Remember, the Air Force approach to suicide prevention is based on shared responsibility. This means we look out for each other and ourselves and spread awareness regarding this serious issue.