Suicide prevention, resiliency Published Sept. 20, 2013 By Airman 1st Class Jimmie D. Pike 47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and Laughlin is using the month to highlight the support that is available for airmen who feel overwhelmed or just need help to cope. "We need to focus on emphasizing the importance of learning and utilizing resiliency skills," said Maj. Melissa Gould, 47th Medical Operations Squadron mental health flight commander. "The pillars of mental, physical, social, and spiritual well being are the basis of resiliency and make up Comprehensive Airmen Fitness. Comprehensive fitness is what will help others overcome overwhelming challenges." In the Air Force, suicide rates are on a steady decline but remain a pressing issue. Common causes and stressors include: relationship troubles, deployments and other day-to-day stresses in high operations tempo. "Comprehensive Airmen Fitness and resilience is very important for those who serve," said Aliyah Negley, 47th Flying Training Wing community support coordinator. "The desire and ability to be resilient is pivotal to successfully overcoming stressors." One of the keys of suicide prevention in the Air Force is being a wingman by supporting fellow airmen, communicating with co-workers, and providing help to those in need. Isolation, unkempt appearance and drastic mood changes are a few of the warning signs. These warning signs can be a chance to recognize the situation and take action as a wingman, assisting those who may need help. "You know the people in your office better than most because you work with them every day," said Senior Master Sgt. Lyman Howard, 47th Operations Group acting superintendent. "Whether you are a supervisor, NCO in charge or an Airman, get to know your co-workers personally. Communication is key." The Air Force has many resources available for those needing help. The mental health clinic, Family Advocacy Program, Military Family Life Consultant, Area Defense Counsel, chaplains, health and wellness center, first sergeants and supervisors can all help and direct anyone in need to proper assistance. The Airman and Family Readiness Center also has professional mental health consultants that do not keep records with the military treatment facility. The A&FRC is available for anyone as an early resource for adjustment issues. "There is misinformation going around that if someone goes to mental health, then their career could be negatively affected, but actually the opposite is true," said Capt. Jeff Martin, 47th Medical Operations Squadron clinical psychologist. "Those who receive help early have little to no impact on their career." "Friends, family and co-workers are also a good source for those in search of support," said Chaplain (Maj.) Andrew McIntosh, 47th Flying Training Wing chaplain. "Sometimes those in question aren't looking for the answer, they just want someone that will listen." One person can make a difference by showing an interest or just asking the question, "Are you afraid of hurting yourself or someone else," explained McIntosh "Don't be afraid to ask the question," said Martin. "Be concerned. There is no evidence to suggest that asking the question will have a negative effect or drive the circumstance." It's recommended that when experiencing depression one should find positive methods to cope, explained Martin. "Instead of allowing a friend to drink away sorrows take him to the gym for a workout," said Martin. "Workouts will take their mind off of the negative and drastically improve their mood." As the Air Force continues its fight against an unhealthy enemy, everyone is encouraged to be a wingman, whether military, civilian or contractor. "Always remember that our most valuable resource is each other. When one of us faces a challenge, we all must stand together," said Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel, in a recent Department of Defense news release. "By fighting as one team, we can and we will help prevent suicide." For immediate help, contact the military crisis line at 1-800-273-8255, which is available 24 hours a day. The mental health clinic, Family Advocacy Program, and Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment may be reached during duty hours at 298-6422. Mental health consultation for leadership is available 24/7 through the command post.