SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. - The 4th Fighter Wing hosted a ‘1 Degree of Separation’ suicide prevention training program in support of suicide prevention month.
‘1 Degree of Separation’ is a suicide prevention training program that uses humor and candid discussions to encourage awareness and acceptance for individuals experiencing depression.
“When you leave today, you will leave with a new skill. You will walk out of this room feeling comfortable having that tough conversation with somebody and will know what to ask them and how to ask them,” said 1 Degree of Separation, Inc. Founder, President and CEO Brad Bonar Jr.
Through a mix of comedy and education, Bonar and his group of comedians teach people to recognize the importance of connection, communication and looking out for one another. With half of the group being current and former military members, the show was easily able to connect with its audience.
The Integrated Resilience Office sought to provide Airmen, families and installation personnel with an engaging way to approach a difficult topic while reinforcing the importance of connection and support.
“We were confident the training would be engaging and leave a lasting impression on everyone who attended,” said Candace Young, Prevention Coordination Specialist. “Through 1 Degree of Separation, our core message was to remind everyone across the installation that it is OK to talk about depression and mental health challenges, that no one is alone, and that we can overcome these struggles and laugh again together.”
Bonar has first hand experience on dealing with the effects of depression and what this show can offer attendees.
“I have had a lot of friends in places where they needed help and when they would reach out to me, I would joke with them about the time I had a [benign] cancer spot removed,” said Bonar. “I was able to not only make them laugh at the comparison, but connect with them in a way.”
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.