News

Suicide is never the answer

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Zachary Cacicia
  • 436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  With the recent and well publicized death of famed comedian and actor, Robin Williams, suicide is once again a front-page topic.

The month of September is only a few days away, and Team Dover's observance of National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month for September, 2014, is an effort to prevent as many unnecessary deaths as possible.

First Lt. Cristina Benitez, 436th Medical Operations Squadron social worker, is the main driving force behind Team Dover's participation for this awareness month.

"It's important to recognize observance of the month," said Benitez. "People don't usually like to talk about it and are afraid to ask the questions."

Suicide is a major issue facing the military today, not only for active duty, Air National Guard and Reserve personnel, but also to a greater degree, the nation's veterans.

"It is important to begin suicide prevention education while in the military," said Benitez. "Since suicide has really impacted the veteran realm."

According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, every day, 23 service members lose their lives to suicide (one active duty and 22 veterans). Veterans account for 20 percent of all suicides in the U.S., even though they only make up roughly seven percent of the U.S. population.

In an effort to combat this trend, during the month of September, medical personnel will build prevention display tables around Dover AFB and hand out suicide prevention material at the main gate.

Also, on Saturday, September 20 at 10:00 a.m., the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is hosting an Out of Darkness Community Walk with a mission to create a world without suicide. This walk will take place in downtown Dover beginning at Loockerman Way Plaza, at 121 West Loockerman St., Dover, Delaware. Check in begins at 8:30 a.m. for this free event. For additional information on the event, visit the website at www.afsp.org/walk, email afspdelaware@gmail.com or call (302)-674-1397.

Airman Samantha Gilbert, 436th MDOS mental health technician, who has been personally affected by suicide by the tragic death of her brother's best friend, wants people to be aware that there are resources for them to use.

"The hotlines are awesome to use," said Gilbert. "They give you a way to reach out and talk to somebody without having to disclose your information if you don't want to."

She went on to say that people are afraid to use the "S word."

"Don't be afraid to ask your friend if they are contemplating suicide," said Gilbert.

Risk factors for suicide include: a history of mental illness, substance use/abuse, a history of impulsivity, legal issues, financial issues, major physical illness, easy access to lethal means, family history of suicide, hopelessness, loss of relationship and a lack of social support/isolation.

"Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem," said Benitez. "Resiliency is key."

Resources on base include: the mental health clinic, primary care, Chaplin services, first sergeant or commander and Military OneSource.

If you wish to talk to the Dover AFB on-duty chaplain, one can be contacted 24/7 via the command post at (302) 677-4201, where you will be connected.

The number for the Military Crisis Hotline is 1-(800)-273-8255 (press 1).