Importance of suicide prevention

CONTINGENCY OPERATING STATION KALSU, IRAQ

10.03.2011

Story by Spc. Bailey Kramer 

1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division

COS KALSU, Iraq – The number of suicides in the military for the month of August was lower than it was last year.

According to stripes.com, since the start of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, more than approximately 1,100 soldiers have taken their own lives.

“Be aware of each other and take care of each other,” advises Ansted, W.Va., native, Capt. Mary Markivich, attached to the 1st Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division as the officer in charge of the Combat Stress Clinic. “Pay attention to their mood, socializing and sleeping habits.”

Markivich says there have been confirmed suicides in the month of August, but overall this year has been lower than past years.
Make time for socializing and make sure to stay connected to loved ones a couple ways to keep busy and spirits up, suggested Markivich.

“We encourage our Soldiers to take personal time,” explained Sgt. 1st Class Wesley Ramon, the first sergeant of Company D, 2nd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division.
“Take time away from the platoon and read a book, contact family or go to the gym.”

“People feel as though they have no hope and no other options,” Markivich expresses her feelings about why so many deployed Soldiers commit suicide.

The Army provides multiple resources for soldiers who feel suicidal or depressed to get the aid required for their problems.

Chaplains provide counseling and support as needed, and Combat Stress Clinic has technicians and doctors available. The Army is also required to provide quarterly suicide prevention classes by a trained leader.

Outside of a soldier’s unit, there are endless opportunities to get help. According to their websites, Military OneSource and the Veterans Affairs recently created a suicide hotline, and these are only naming a few.

Not only are there available resources, Ramon explains how his unit and many others prepared for this deployment. “We held suicide prevention classes in garrison, upon arrival in Kuwait and after the Transfer of Authority with the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment.” While here in Iraq, the Ironhorse Brigade plans on holding the Army standard of quarterly training.

“Remember, it’s ok to ‘take a knee and drink water',” Ramon concluded. “It’s not a sign of weakness, everyone needs a break.”
“Keep an eye on your battle buddy,” Markivich expressed one last time.

• Date Taken: 10.03.2011
• Date Posted: 10.03.2011 06:56
• Story ID: 77919
• Location: CONTINGENCY OPERATING STATION KALSU, IQ