In a memo released by the Secretary of the Army Hon. Dan Driscoll, leaders are charged with making daily calls to Soldiers as part of the "Just Pick Up" campaign. This check in initiative is intended for the Holiday season through Jan. 15, 2026. The effort, best explained as a grassroots suicide prevention strategy best practice adapted from 1st Infantry Brigade, 11th Airborne Division leaders, will focus on Soldier well-being checks to address potential risk factors by offering Soldiers support and access to helping agencies, programs and services.
The Calendar Year 2023 Annual Report on Suicide in the Military, released November 2024, detailed 523 active-duty, National Guard and reserve Soldiers who died by suicide. The data revealed an increase in deaths by suicide when compared to Calendar Year 2022. The 2023 findings also called attention to the positive effects of gestures such as a phone call or a visit to help those who may be struggling emotionally.
For some, the first frost of winter may not usher in feelings of enthusiasm about the change in seasons. Many people may worry about their holiday budgets or feel lonelier and more isolated than during other times of the year. In fact, a study by the American Psychological Association revealed that 41% of people surveyed said they felt more anxious during the winter holidays.
“The holidays can be a high-risk period for self-harm. We know it’s a problem; it happens every year, so we’ll address it head-on,” Driscoll said in the memo.
“For those who need help: When your phone rings during daily checkup, just pick up and ask for help. We want to pick you up, share your load and get you moving forward again.”
The effort is a reminder that seeking help is a sign of strength. It takes tremendous courage to reach out and ask for support; but we can find strength and hope together through connection. If you or someone you know may be having a hard time, please contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The Lifeline is free, confidential and available 24/7/365. Military OneSource also offers free, short-term, confidential counseling services to Soldiers, Army Civilians and their Families. Read Hon. Driscoll’s Just Pick Up memo at army.mil
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