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Military Health System

Suicide Prevention

Military service members’ lives are generally very different from the lives of civilians. Service members may be subject to frequent relocations, overseas deployments, and stressful experiences related to combat and significant time away from their families. Everyone reacts to stress and traumatic experiences differently, and while some have reactions that can be seen as normal responses to life events, others may experience signs or symptoms of more serious conditions, including depression, traumatic brain injury, or posttraumatic stress disorder. Those coping with more serious concerns may feel like there is no escape from their difficulties.

Suicide is a serious public health concern, but is preventable. 

Reach Out for Support

You are not alone. If you or a loved one needs immediate help, there are resources available to you.

Military Crisis Line Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Psychological Health Resource Center

24/7, free support for all service members and veterans.

24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress.

24/7 support and assistance for service members, veterans and families.

Recognize the Signs of Those at Risk

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, there may be cause for concern. Seek professional guidance right away if you or your loved one, co-worker or friend is:

  • Thinking about hurting or killing yourself/themselves or others
  • Experiencing excessive rage, anger, or desire for revenge
  • Seeking access to pills, weapons, or other means of harm
  • Having feelings of anxiety, agitation, or hopelessness
  • Talking or writing excessively about death, dying, or suicide
  • Repeatedly reliving past stressful experiences
  • Unable to sleep or sleeping all the time
  • Experiencing uncharacteristic dramatic changes in mood or behavior
  • Withdrawing from friends, family, or society
  • Feeling there is no reason for living
  • Engaging in significant alcohol or drug use
  • Feeling trapped, like there is no way out
  • Engaging in risky behavior, such as driving recklessly

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Resources to help those left behind in wake of suicide

Article Around MHS
9/16/2021
A cell phone is used to contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which provides free and confidential support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress, also features information on its website for loss survivors and how to support someone who has lost a loved one.

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Ask the Doc: I've Got a Friend I'm Worried About – What Should I Do?

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9/15/2021
Soldiers conduct a ruck march on airfield.

Doc talks to Dr. Tim Hoyt, chief of Psychological Health Promotion and supervisor of the Combat and Operational Stress Control mission at the Psychological Health Center of Excellence, about some of the ways to go about addressing your concerns with a friend you may think is in danger of harming themself.

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It's Okay to Ask for Help

Article Around MHS
9/8/2021
Photo By Tech. Sgt. Victor J. Caputo | September is Suicide Prevention Month, with September 5 through 11 marking National Suicide Prevention Week. While it is every Airman's duty to watch out for their wingmen, it is also important for Airmen to understand the vast amount of resources available to them if they are experiencing their own personal crisis. (U.S. Air Force photo illustration by Tech. Sgt. Victor J. Caputo)

This commentary reflects the author’s personal experiences seeking mental health treatment. His experience is not necessarily reflective of any other individual’s experiences, which can vary due to any number of factors, including past experiences, family history, AFSC, or special qualifications.

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Connect to Protect During Suicide Prevention Month in September

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9/7/2021
Photo By Eleanor Prohaska | Photo by David Shipton. Participating and volunteering in clubs and organizations like Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers, the USO and intra-mural sports is a good way to make and build connections. Shown here, Soldiers from the 30th Medical Brigade and Religious Support Office, SPC Hannah Konkel, SPC Samuil Matveev, SPC Miguel Contreras and SPC Jessica Baatz, take part in a BOSS-sponsored auto skills workshop.

How do you connect with others, and why is that important? Research shows that social connection improves physical, emotional, and mental health. It can also reduce the likelihood someone will consider or attempt suicide.

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Suicide Prevention and Connectedness with Others are Intertwined

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9/2/2021
The DOD theme for this year’s National Suicide Prevention Month is “Connect to Protect: Support is Within Reach,” emphasizing connectedness even during a pandemic.

September is Suicide Prevention Month: Help is Within Reach

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DHA SEL Talks About Suicide Prevention Month

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8/23/2021
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CSM Gragg talks about taking care of yourself, body and mind, and how to reach out for help or how to help a friend in need. Addressing your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health.

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Suicide Prevention Spot (Evergreen)

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8/23/2021
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Lt. Gen. Ronald Place speaks to the audience about the importance of suicide awareness and prevention all year round.

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Suicide Prevention Tools for Warriors Fact Sheet

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6/23/2021

Use these helpful tools and resources if you or someone you know is in crisis.

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Start the Conversation

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6/18/2021
Start the Conversation

It’s not always obvious when someone is experiencing depression or thinking about suicide. In this video, learn how you can identify signs of distress and take action by starting the conversation about getting help.

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Start the Conversation 29 Sec PSA

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6/18/2021
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Talking to someone about getting help can be difficult. This video introduces some tips to help you start the conversation.

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Countering seasonal depression during the COVID-19 pandemic

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1/5/2021
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SAD, or sometimes called seasonal depression, is a subtype of a major depressive disorder.

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Seeking help from friends and family vital for mental health

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12/23/2020
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Reaching out for help with your mental health is not a sign of weakness, according to Tim Hoyt.

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Army Sgt. Maj. implores others to seek help for suicide ideation

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9/28/2020
Army Sgt. Maj. implores others to seek help for suicide ideation

The support [McGrath] received was opposite from what he thought it would be.

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Suicide Impacts Us All – But There Is Help!

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9/14/2020
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September marks Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

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Last Updated: January 09, 2023
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