Suicidal Behaviors
The Air Force sees suicide prevention as the responsibility of the entire Air Force community. As leaders and wingmen, each Airman is responsible for creating a culture that encourages responsible help-seeking and healthy coping skills. All personnel must know the risk factors for suicide and be prepared to ask directly about suicide if they notice any of these risk factors.
“Suicide Warning Signs.” American Foundation for Suicide Prevention--Twitter, 21
July 2017, https://twitter.com/afspnational/status/888496382981570560.
Check your phone's app store to download the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) app: The Columbia Protocol
Signs Wingmen Should Know/Look For
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Current/pending disciplinary or legal action (see Investigative Handoff and Limited Privilege Suicide Prevention program).
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Relationship problems.
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Substance abuse.
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Financial problems.
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Work-related problems.
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Transitions (retirement, PCS, separation from service, etc.).
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A serious medical problem, such as chronic pain or terminal illness.
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Significant loss, such as through death or divorce.
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Setbacks (academic, career, or personal).
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Stress that is severe, prolonged, and/or that a person thinks they cannot manage.
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A sense of powerlessness, helplessness, and/or hopelessness.
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A sense of being a burden to others.
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Presence of a weapon in the home.
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History of previous suicide attempts or self-injurious behavior such as cutting or burning.
Recognizing Distress in Individuals with Risk Factors
Coworkers, family, and friends are in the best position to recognize behavioral changes that indicate distress or difficulty coping, to discuss these changes with the individual, and to provide care and support. Changes may be exhibited in one or more of the following:
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Mood
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Concentration
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Sleep
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Energy
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Appetite
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Substance use
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Impulse control
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Reduced capacity for enjoyment
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Helplessness or hopelessness
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Peer relations (withdrawal or arguments)
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Work performance
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Military bearing
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Personal hygiene and grooming
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Ineffective problem solving
