Captain’s Column

“We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.”

This time of year, there are numerous ways we can give.

We can give food items to local food banks through the Feds Feed Family annual drive or we can mentor local students, making a difference in the classroom.

But, we can also help our shipmates, being by their side should they need a helping hand.

September we recognize as Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month. Suicide is a major health concern. More than 40,000 people die by suicide each year in the United States. It is the 10th leading cause of death overall and the second leading cause of death for young people ages 15 to 34. For Navy suicides, last year the leading stressors included a combination of issues at work, transitioning either between commands or from the military, mental health, physical health, medical history, significant life events, relationship troubles and legal troubles. It’s completed and tragic, but is preventable. Knowing the warning signs for suicide and how to get help can save lives.

Suicide does not discriminate. Suicidal behavior is complex and there is no single cause. But people most at risk tend to share certain characteristics. The main risk factors for suicide are: depression; substance abuse; certain medical conditions; chronic pain; a prior suicide attempt; family history of mental disorder, substance abuse or suicide; family violence; and being exposed to others’ suicidal behavior.

Many people have some of these risk factors but do not attempt suicide. Suicidal thoughts and/or actions are a sign of extreme distress, not a harmless attempt for attention, and should not be ignored.

Suicide prevention is an all-hands evolution, all of the time. It starts with knowing the signs and symptoms. Some of these include:

*Talking about wanting to die.

*Talking about feeling empty or hopeless.

*Talking about terrible guilt or shame.

*Talking about feeling trapped or that there are no solutions.

*Talking about being a burden to others.

*Making a plan or looking for ways to kill themselves.

*Using alcohol or drugs more often.

*Acting anxious or agitated.

*Withdrawing from family and friends.

*Giving away important possessions.

*Displaying extreme mood swings, suddenly changing from very sad to calm or happy.

If these warning signs apply to you or someone you know, get help as soon as possible. Please contact the counselors at the Fleet and Family Support Center at (361) 961-2875, the Chaplain’s Office at (361) 961-5042, or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

Suicide prevention is an all-hands evolution, all of the time.

We are asked to ACT – ask, care, treat. Pay attention to what people are saying to prevent a potential tragedy. The worst thing we can do is nothing.