New program aims to improve suicide prevention

Photo By Tech. Sgt. Areca Wilson | In 2014, 59 active duty members and 36 Air National Guard, Air Force Reserve and civilians committed suicide. To improve suicide prevention, face-to-face and small group discussions will replace the computer-based annual suicide prevention training across the U.S. Air Force. The endorsed training policy will now be conducted through an hour-long group discussion and interactive video training. (U.S. Air Force photo illustration by Senior Airman Areca T. Wilson/Released)  

AVIANO AIR BASE, ITALY

03.23.2015

Story by Senior Airman Areca Wilson 

31st Fighter Wing

AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy -- To further prevent suicide across the U.S. Air Force, face-to-face and small group discussions will replace the computer-based annual suicide prevention training.

The endorsed training policy will now be conducted through an hour-long group discussion and interactive video training. U.S. Air Force Capt. Relinda Hatcher, 31st Medical Operations Squadron installation suicide prevention program manager, stressed that maximum effort and attentiveness of all Airmen during this training will allow for the success of suicide prevention.

"Our previous computer-based training was a good way to standardize the information and make it readily available," said Hatcher. "But it missed the opportunity for leaders and their Airmen to address the problem on a personal level, while enhancing the wingman concept."

According to Hatcher, suicide is the second leading cause of death for all Service members. It also remains a leading cause of concern in preventable forms of death among Air Force personnel. In 2014, 59 active-duty members and 36 Air National Guard, Air Force Reserve and civilians committed suicide. So far in 2015, there have been 18 total force suicides.

"Aviano has not had a suicide-related death for several years," said Hatcher. "We have been vigilant in our concerted efforts to promote preventive help-seeking and the enhancement of mission readiness. When leadership prioritizes suicide prevention, all Airmen prioritize suicide prevention."

Though Aviano has been fortunate to not have any suicides recently, Hatcher continued by explaining that knowing the difference between a risk factor and warning signs can help identify those in need of assistance.

According to National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, risk factors are characteristics that make it more likely for an individual to consider suicide, while warning signs display an increased chance of suicide.

The following are the most common risk factors and warning signs described by Hatcher:

Risk factors
· Relationship issues
· Financial problems
· Alcohol, drug or substance abuse
· Believing others would be better off without you
· Feeling hopeless or helpless with no way out

Warning signs
· Unusual or sudden behavioral changes
· Changes in appetite, sleep habits, mood, concentration, or energy levels
· Depression or anxiety
· Expressing feelings of hopelessness or helplessness

"When suspecting someone is showing risk factors of suicide, think of the acronym ACE--[ask, care, escort]," suggested Hatcher. "Have the courage to ask the question, but stay calm. Ask the question directly, 'Are you thinking of killing yourself?'"

Anyone who may experience or witness the preceding changes within someone they know, are encouraged to contact the Mental Health Clinic. Hatcher also advised Service members against avoiding visiting a behavioral health clinic for fear of hurting their careers.

"This is one of the biggest misconceptions and barriers for someone who is in need of help," said Hatcher. "Not seeking help has the potential to exacerbate a situation and cost someone their life. What typically happens is that an individual does not seek help [with their] overwhelming problems, stress persists and they suffer even more.

"It is important to understand that people who seek help will not get into any trouble and since suicidal behaviors are considered medical emergencies, these individuals should see a doctor or mental health professional without delay," added Hatcher.

For assistance, Service members can contact the Aviano Mental Health Clinic at 632-5321 or the Chaplain office at 632-5211.

Hatcher stressed the importance of helping out one's fellow wingman.

"If someone mentions they are having thoughts about suicide, always take [those] thoughts or plans seriously," she said. "If you are in a position to help, do not assume your presence is unwanted or intrusive. Your wingman needs your help, so stay vigilant ask, care, and escort! Remember to always take care of your wingman."

For additional information and support, the following agencies can also be contacted:

Military and Family Life Consultants at 632-5029
Airman and Family Readiness Center at 632-5407
Family Advocacy at 632-5667
ADAPT at 632-5321
Military One Source at [phone]
Confidential chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net or [phone]

• Date Taken: 03.23.2015
• Date Posted: 03.23.2015 10:26
• Story ID: 157772
• Location: AVIANO AIR BASE, IT