The headline was small and muted this month, but the Army reported 278 suicides for 2011. That figure represents Active Duty, Guard, and Reserve components. While that number may not immediately seem like good news, it is nearly a ten percent drop from 2010. It is also the first time that number has declined in four years.
I understand why no one wanted to herald the news, but this should still be seen as a victory. We are making an incredible difference in the lives of people. Suicide prevention training has taken hold in the force and continues to grow. Soldiers and families understand that it is okay to talk about deployment issues and concerns. Stigma and fear continues to decline. Counselors, medics, chaplains and battle buddies at every level are teaching service members how to address suicidal thoughts. That being said, there is still more work to be done.
Broken relationships are still the number one reason that Soldiers commit suicide. It is important that first line leaders sit down with service members at the first hint of marital conflict. Make time to listen and discover how your Soldiers are dealing with the hardships of life.
Practice ACE: Ask, Care, Escort. Ask people how they are doing. Care about their situation through listening. Escort people to a community resource when they need help.
Military One Source is available 24/7. You can call and immediately speak with a counselor or ask for a referral. The operator will give you several local counseling options and assist you in making an appointment. Service members can receive 12 free counseling sessions each year. Military One Source can be reached at 1.800.342.9647.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available to help those contemplating suicide. You can call 1.800.273.TALK (8255) and be connected to a counselor. Once you are on the lifeline, a person can decide to speak with a veteran or a civilian.
Army suicides are starting to decline. Our efforts are bearing fruit in multiple arenas. One year will may not establish a pattern, but it is certainly a step in the right direction.
God Squad 