September is Suicide Prevention Month. What can we do as the RallyPoint community to support one another?

SSG Carlos Madden — Wed, 02 Sep 2020 15:04:23 -0400

Response by Cohen Veterans Network made Sep 2 at 2020 4:36 PM

Cohen Veterans Network — Wed, 02 Sep 2020 16:36:33 -0400

As a national mental health network supporting veterans and military families - we have a lot of suggestions on this topic! Here are just a few:

1. Suicide Prevention starts with taking care of ourselves. We can be better support for others when we are mentally strong. Ask for help if you need it.

2. Learn to recognize the warning signs of suicide - especially online signs we may come across here on RallyPoint: http://www.cohenveteransnetwork.org/recognizing-the-coded-language-of-suicide-and-what-to-do-about-it/

3. Be there. In a time where we may have to maintain physical distance from people we care about - check in with friends and loved ones. Send a message here on RP, email, text. By reaching out, you can help someone going through a difficult time feel included and supported.

4. Don't be afraid to ask the question. There's a myth that if you ask someone about suicide, you "give them the idea". In reality, asking others about suicide does NOT lead them to have suicidal thoughts. Research tells us that asking others the question gives them permission to talk about their thoughts and feelings.

5. Educate yourself on resources available! Save the Veterans Crisis Line in your phone right now: [login to see] , Press 1. for veterans/military. If you're concerned about a Veteran or service member, call for support.

Recognizing the Coded Language of Suicide – and what to do about it - Cohen Veterans Network

Scrolling through Facebook, you see a post from someone you met at a previous duty station. He shares that he’s going through a divorce and a few comments stand out to you: “I mess everything up. People would be better off without me.” His post concerns you, but maybe you haven’t spoken in a while. …

Response by LCDR Gordon Brown made Sep 3 at 2020 6:05 PM

LCDR Gordon Brown — Thu, 03 Sep 2020 18:05:34 -0400

The Red Flags to look for with someone contemplating suicide are:
Talking or discussions about wanting to die
Researching ways to kill oneself
References to hopelessness or feeling as if life has no purpose
Feelings of being trapped or in unbearable pain
Feelings of being a burden to others
Increased alcohol or drug use
Sleep changes; either excessive sleep or insomnia
Isolation and withdrawal
Expressions of rage or a desire to seek revenge
Anxiety, agitation or recklessness
Extreme mood swings
Giving away important personal items or pets

Response by LCDR Gordon Brown made Sep 3 at 2020 6:07 PM

LCDR Gordon Brown — Thu, 03 Sep 2020 18:07:38 -0400

Carlos great question and how are you doing these days? SSG Carlos Madden

Response by SPC Michael Budzinski made Sep 3 at 2020 8:25 PM

SPC Michael Budzinski — Thu, 03 Sep 2020 20:25:52 -0400

Im not going to make it this time. Was fit 230lbs most adult life now 160. Had good job paid 3 times more than 100% and sold everything worked so hard for. My wife of over 20 can’t stand and don’t want anything to do with who I am now. After 12 years on opioids now want to start their crap and no strength to deal with. Can’t help suicide when you don’t help at all. Difference between life and living

Response by A1C Alexa Cosson made Sep 4 at 2020 9:16 AM

A1C Alexa Cosson — Fri, 04 Sep 2020 09:16:23 -0400

Every month should be suicidal awareness month!