Suicide Prevention and Awareness
There are many resources available across all military installations that can support service members facing mental, physical or spiritual challenges, including behavioral health personnel, the Chaplain, unit leadership, and other installation suicide-prevention programs. To maintain a healthy and ready force, it is imperative that all service members are not only aware of the various programs available but also understand they do not have to face difficult circumstances alone.
It is common amongst service members to bear the weight of their hardships without reaching out for help from others. Independence and self-sufficiency are valuable qualities, however, in instances where the weight is too heavy to carry alone, seeking help can be an important step toward overcoming difficult trials.
“Carrying an unbearable load in silence is not fortitude; it is a vulnerability,” said Chaplain Matthew Maestas with Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. “True strength is having courage, humility, and self-awareness to admit when the pack is too heavy. Asking for assistance is not surrender; it is how we rearm and stay in the fight.”
The slight, quiet changes in a person’s behavior often go unnoticed and yet, are sometimes among the first indicators that they’re struggling. Withdrawal, isolation, loss of interest and increased risk-taking are a few of many indicators that someone may need additional support. Recognizing those changes is the first step in getting someone the help they need.
Marines wear two name tapes on their blouses. Their last name is written on the right and the one on the left says, “U.S. Marines.” Not just Marine, but “Marines.” It is our responsibility to check on the person sitting next to us, to have uncomfortable conversations with them, to listen without judgment and to be with them in crisis.
“I believe community plays a huge part in suicide prevention,” said Lance Cpl. Johnathan Cabrera, an air traffic controller with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron (H&HS), Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni. “Helping individuals build relations with not only others but with oneself gives people a sense of togetherness.”
Recognize the signs, reach out and finally, connect people with the proper resources. The Chaplain, behavioral health, leadership and other installation resources “operate as an integrated network of support, each bringing distinct, complementary capabilities,” said Chaplain Maestas.
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