Suicide Prevention Month part 4: Stay Strong

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Zade C. Vadnais
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan-- --  Over the past few weeks, we've watched Airman Smith fall into a suicidal depression, seek help and return to his old self with the help of Kadena's suicide prevention resources.

After noticing something was wrong, a wingman sat down with Smith and had him discuss his feelings. Together, they called the Military Crisis Line where a responder helped him create a safety plan, which involved visiting the chaplain and the Mental Health office for support.

In addition to the invaluable assistance provided by the Military Crisis Line, chaplain and the Mental Health office, Airman Smith was able to get better because he had a wingman looking out for him.

If you suspect someone may be struggling with suicidal thoughts, remember to follow A.C.E., which stands for "ask, care and escort." Ask your wingman directly if they are considering suicide, listen without interrupting to show that you care and escort them to a supervisor, chaplain or other resource to ensure they get the help they need.

Although watching for changes in someone's behavior and speaking with them face-to-face is the best way to determine whether or not they're struggling with suicidal thoughts, some people feel more comfortable expressing themselves through more impersonal means, such as Twitter or Facebook.

"There is good research that indicates people use social media as a way to communicate last words," said U.S. Air Force Capt. Christopher Howells, 18th Medical Operations Squadron psychologist.

A good wingman knows that cryptic or suicidal statements on social media should be taken seriously and are cause for concern.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, your priority should be to get help. Suicide prevention resources on Kadena can be used preventatively and should not be treated as a last resort.

Howells said those who have thought about seeking help should act on those thoughts. Dealing with these issues proactively is likely to minimize the "snowball effect" that often causes people to feel like they have lost control of their lives.
Whether for yourself or a wingman, a proactive response to red flags such as sudden changes in behavior and dark posts on social media could mean the difference between life and death. Do your best to be a good wingman.

For more information, visit www.airforcemedicine.af.mil/suicideprevention.