Be there. These two simple words could be all that it takes to save a life. As we observe National Suicide Prevention Month in September, I challenge every Soldier in the I Corps Team of teams to "be there" for one another. We can achieve this by caring for each other as professionals, as people and supporting each other without exception.
Although the U.S. Suicide Prevention Resource Center indicates that the military suicide rate appears to have stabilized in recent years, the rate remains unacceptably high and is still above the civilian average. Here on Joint Base Lewis-McChord, the vast majority of suicides are due to relationship distress, while Soldiers with behavioral health diagnosis or pending disciplinary actions make up the other leading factors.
By caring for those in difficult situations, we can decrease the likelihood they would choose suicide.
Know your Soldiers. It is well-established that regular and constructive counseling provides the perfect forum for understanding subordinates and providing them with human connection, support, and resources.
However, this issue calls for more; leaders, peers, subordinates and families alike to play vital roles in providing a network of care. A positive climate always builds trust, an invaluable commodity that protects us from feelings of despair and desolation.
At one time or another, though, we all rely on friends, family, subordinates and mentors to help us effectively manage our stress. This way, in those moments of anger, illness, grief or fear, we know that someone will always "be there" for us.
This month, let's redouble our efforts to develop trust and support systems in our formations, families and communities -- and work to reduce the likelihood of suicide by helping those know we know to be very vulnerable. Let's innovate new ways to "be there" -- no one on our team should ever feel that they are alone in the fight against depression or suicide.
Together, we can foster an environment where individuals have access to resources and are comfortable seeking help if necessary.
The bottom line is that suicide prevention is everyone's responsibility, and all it takes if for us to "be there" for one another. Soldiers are our greatest asset, so let's support each other and remain the most capable and best-trained military in the world.
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