Suicide Awareness/Prevention: What are you interested in?

SGT Russell H. — Fri, 14 Feb 2020 08:33:18 -0500

Suicide awareness and prevention is an issue within all military branches of service. What events and marketing/educational material are Service Members truly interested in?

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Feb 14 at 2020 12:40 PM

SGM Bill Frazer — Fri, 14 Feb 2020 12:40:01 -0500

Education, counseling, Vet2Vet seminars/meetings. Having someone watch out for you and mentor you. KNOW that you are not alone, and there's folks to talk/help you!

Response by Col Casey "Radio" G. made Feb 14 at 2020 6:30 PM

Col Casey "Radio" G. — Fri, 14 Feb 2020 18:30:11 -0500

1. Reliably connecting those in need with the mountain of resources we've gathered.
2. Eliminating fear and stigmatization associated with seeking help.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Feb 15 at 2020 4:41 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sat, 15 Feb 2020 16:41:14 -0500

I think what they want, we can’t give to them. They want their life back.

I will say that I have fought PTSD for 6 years. I have written a long paper in regards to PTSD for two purposes. One is education and painting the picture of PTSD. The second purpose is describing simple coping mechanisms. I use every opportunity to deploy it to those who want it. It is quite rewarding to help give life back to those who have PTSD.

My paradigm of PTSD has changed over the years. Don’t hurt yourself is not enough. Take it one step further, replace reasons to die with reasons to live. Get help is not enough. We need to instill in people exactly where to go for help. There should be no confusion.