September is Suicide Prevention Month

September is Suicide Prevention Month in the Army – a time for Soldiers, Family members and Civilians to increase their awareness of the need to improve their physical, spiritual and behavioral health.

This year’s theme is “Improving our Soldiers’ and Families’ Health: A Healthy Force Combating High Risk Behaviors.” During September, the Army will coordinate programs that reinforce healthy living and emphasize how to recognize the signs and symptoms someone may display when considering self-harm. The month will be marked by programs and events highlighting prevention, awareness, education and training. These programs, events and training courses can be found at: http://www.armyg1.army.mil/hr/suicide/default.asp.

“The Army’s charter is more about holistically improving the physical, mental, and spiritual health of our Soldiers and their Families than solely focusing on suicide prevention,” explained Vice Chief of Staff GEN Peter W. Chiarelli. “If we do the first, we are convinced the second will happen.”

Knowing where to find help or information is the most important thing that a Soldier, Family member or Civilian can do to prevent suicide. Another suicide-prevention resource can be found at: www.militaryonesource.com.

Suicide Prevention Month is dedicated to help Soldiers, Families and Civilians gather all the needed information and support that they need about healthy living inside and out. The Army is dedicated to raising the awareness of these topics to ensure the safety and health of men and woman that serve the United States.