Suicide-prevention is everyone’s business

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Benjamin Raughton
  • 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  There were more than 38,000 deaths by suicide in America in 2010, which is an average of 105 deaths per day.

Last year, 349 were active-duty service members, 59 being Airmen.

September is suicide prevention month, and Airmen are becoming aware of how they can help someone who may be thinking about taking their own life.

"Suicide is a community and public health concern, not just a chaplain or mental health concern," said Capt. Michael Glotfelter, 2nd Medical Group clinical psychologist. "Wingman culture views suicide prevention as the responsibility of the entire Air Force community. Recognizing signs of distress and taking immediate action are cornerstones to that culture."

According to the American Association of Suicidology, some of the warning signs of suicide include substance abuse, feelings of being trapped, hopelessness, withdrawal or recklessness.

However, there are other things Airmen can do besides looking for symptoms.

"The main thing is to be engaged with your co-workers, and supervisors need to be engaged with their Airmen," said Master Sgt. Andrew Bedell, of the 2nd Medical Group first sergeant. "Daily interaction can help even if it is just to sit down with them and find out about their weekend. Personal interaction can help mitigate suicide."

One of the reasons Airmen need to engage each other is because it shows Airmen care about each other, said Bedell.

"We need to have open communication with each other," he added. "Don't be afraid to seek help. A lot of people think if they seek help it will ruin their career, but that's not the case."

Bedell also encourages struggling Airmen to seek help from the chaplain.

"In the Air Force, we are family," said Chaplain (Maj.) Robert Schobert, 2nd Bomb Wing. "We have a culture of caring for one another. If you are struggling with issues that lead to thoughts of suicide, let someone know. You are surrounded by people every day that care about you, support you, and want you to be successful in every way."

The chaplain advises Airmen to make a conscious effort to show their wingmen they care.

"That alone provides a tremendous comfort to those who are distraught," he said.

Airmen struggling with thoughts of suicide also have other outlets to seek help. Online suicide-prevention programs can be found on the Military One-Source or Veterans Crisis Line website.

"If you believe that suicide prevention doesn't apply to you, you are wrong," Schobert said. "When you have a friend, family member, or coworker that is struggling with life issues, you are in a position to recognize when help may be needed."

Help may be needed to deal with the stress of military life, family or relationship problems, and sometimes that feeling is overwhelming.

"It's natural for all people to feel stressed and for some to feel overwhelmed," Glotfelter said. "Getting help when you or someone you know is hurting is a sign of strength; it demonstrates good judgment and ultimately supports the mission."

For more information, visit www.veteranscrisisline.net. Those seeking help can also call a confidential, toll-free hotline at 1-800-273-8255.