Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center reinforced the message that seeking help for suicide is a sign of strength, not vulnerability, by hosting a proclamation ceremony and information fair Sept. 28 for Soldiers, medical staff and military families.
The events brought service members, families, health care professionals and community partners together to raise awareness of suicide prevention resources and encourage people to seek support when needed.
“Suicide prevention is a shared responsibility, and it belongs to all of us and not just mental health professionals, not just physicians, nurses or counselors,” said Summer Dixon, Fort Hood suicide prevention program manager. “That also includes our medical teams, our technicians, administrative staff, security, support staff, every leader, and every person who contributes to this hospital community in a clinical or no clinical capacity.”
Today’s proclamation is more than a formal recognition of suicide prevention month, it’s a reminder of the culture that we want to continue building, she added.
The information fair provided attendees with an opportunity to discover available resources and connect with support teams who can help individuals and families navigate mental health and wellness concerns.
Organizers emphasized the importance of recognizing when someone may need help and knowing where to turn for support.
“Together, we can build a community where support is strength and connection is protection,” said Michelle Aguayo Outreach Program Coordinator for Child and Family Mental Health Services.
The events reinforced CRDAMC’s commitment to suicide prevention and to strengthening connections among service members, families, health care providers and community resources.
For those experiencing a crisis or concerned about someone else, help is available through military and community resources.
The Army also provides access to additional resources including the Military Crisis Line, Military OneSource, and the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. These services offer confidential support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you or someone you know is experiencing a crisis, call or text 988 and press 1 for the Military Crisis Line. Military Crisis Line / Veterans Crisis Line:Dial988and press1(or text838255), or use online chat at988Lifeline.org.
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