Chaplain’s Column

Talking about suicide can be an uncomfortable, but it is a conversation that we all must have.

Since the writing of this article, several persons have died by suicide including Kate Spade, Anthony Bourdain and several local residents in the Corpus Christi area.

Let’s have a conversation about what each of us can do individually and collectively to address the impact suicide is having on our families and communities.

First, we must broaden our awareness of suicide-related behaviors and its causes. Some of the top reasons for suicide include loss of loved ones, depression and mental challenges, financial and legal issues, and even bullying.

To counter the effects of the aforementioned potential causes, we must become more aware of the signs and causes of suicide. I would like you to visit the following website: www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

Second, we must engage one another with intentionality and compassion. Oftentimes we are too afraid to be intrusive in our relationships.

The fact of the matter is we must engage in more meaningful conversation and communication. In the era of social media and text messages, although they are good, we have lost the impact of what a good face-to-face conversation with another individual can do. Good communication helps us to hear the hearts of those we love. Good communication allows us to ask the necessary questions to ensure that those in our sphere of influence are emotionally stable. I want to invite you to spend some time with those you love with intentional conversations about being there for one another should there be a need for help.

Third, we must be aware of the available resources to assist us in helping someone receive the help that he or she needs. If you detect that an individual is displaying suicide-related behaviors, it is imperative that you take the person to a chaplain, call the health clinic, contact the base CDO, or call the suicide hotline for additional support.

Here are those phone numbers:

Duty Chaplain (361) 533-1394

NASCC CDO (361) 534-9093

Naval Health Clinic Quarterdeck (361) 961-2688

Suicide Hotline 1-800-272-8255

Finally, together we can all help by broadening our awareness, engaging one another in intentional conversation and using the resources that are available.

Please continue to have conversations about suicide with everyone in your sphere of influence.