SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawaii - The Army is committed to the health, safety and well-being of its Soldiers, Department of the Army civilians and families. To emphasize this commitment, the Army is joining the nation in observing national Suicide Prevention Month during September.
The Army Substance Abuse Program's Risk Reduction Program arranged for free Tai Chi classes to take place on Sills Field, here, to promote suicide prevention.
U.S. Army Garrison-Hawaii's number one priority is to ensure Soldiers and families are ready, prepared and supported throughout the deployment process with programs that encourage and promote resiliency and well-being.
There will be two opportunities to participate in the free class, Sept. 18 and 21, at 7 a.m. These days were chosen to allow for individuals, units and family members to attend during their physical training sessions on a weekday or on the weekend.
"Tai Chi is an excellent method to alleviate stress, create resiliency and increase physical stamina," said Malena Brooks, RRP coordinator.
Reservations are not required, but please notify the RRP at 655-0996 if you plan on attending the free Tai Chi classes.
"Tai Chi is a concept that the Army Center for Substance Abuse is trying to implement into a universal training plan," said Johnny Miller, ASAP prevention coordinator, about why Tai Chi classes are being offered here. "Essentially, we are doing another pilot to see how Tai Chi is perceived and how people like it.
"We are offering these programs to help deter any high risk behavior and let people know there are a lot of alternatives and resources available to them here on post," Miller added.
In addition to the Tai Chi classes, Belinda Danielson, supervisor of the Hawaii State Access Line, will be speaking about suicide prevention at the Sgt. Smith Theater, Sept. 24, 10-11:30 a.m.
The suicide hotline's number is 832-3100, and it's free, confidential and available to anyone having suicidal ideations, or thoughts of suicide.
Active duty Soldiers and DA civilians will receive two hours worth of training credit from ASAP for attending the session.
To wrap up Suicide Prevention Month, RRP is hosting its final event, "Celebrate Life," Sept. 30, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., at the Kalakaua Community Center, here.
Various subject matter experts will have information booths set up, the 25th Infantry Division Band will perform and free massages will be offered to anyone who attends. Soldiers and DA civilians will receive three hours of ASAP training credit for attending the "Celebrate Life" event.
The Army's observance during the entire month of September will focus on "Shoulder to Shoulder - I will never quit on life," as this year's theme.
This mantra emphasizes that each person has a responsibility and commitment to reach out and help his or her fellow Soldier, civilian or family member, as each person both supplements and needs the strength of the Army.
Leaders must also empower Soldiers, civilians and families with intervention techniques and offer ways to seek help in suicide prevention, including hotlines, crisis centers, religious organizations and the American Red Cross.
A variety of Suicide Prevention resources are also available at <a href="http://www.us.army.mil/suite/page/503094">www.us.army.mil/suite/page/503094</a>, where an AKO login is required, or at <a href="http://www.preventsuicide.army.mil">www.preventsuicide.army.mil</a>.
Social Sharing