Oct. 10, 2019

Don’t just command, care!

JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST — The alarming rise in suicides across the Air Force over the past year caused Chief of Staff of the Air Force Gen. David Goldfein and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Kaleth O. Wright to direct a Resiliency Tactical Pause in late July 2019. Goldfein stated, “I don’t have the solution.” The RTP was not to be a one-day event or additional program. It was to be the start of a culture shift. A culture where there is no stigma around seeking or receiving mental health care. A culture of open communication between Airmen and their supervisors so early recognition of serious problems occurs and, better yet, minor problems do not develop into serious ones. From what I observed at my wing’s RTP in late August, the majority of Airmen viewed the RTP as beneficial.

June 21, 2017

Connection saves lives: Be there to help prevent suicide

FALLS CHURCH, Va. (AFNS) — You can make a difference for someone struggling with suicidal thoughts with as little as eye contact and a friendly smile, an arm around the shoulder, or a kind word at the right time.