Critical Days of Summer week two: suicide prevention Published June 2, 2010 By Tech. Sgt. James Fountain 17th Fighter Wing Safety Office GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Have you ever had a co-worker take some time off? How about a month off? If you or a co-worker were gone forever, it would truly be a critical loss to your family and mission the mission as well because we all play a big part in accomplishing the mission. Our second week of the Critical Days of Summer campaign focuses on suicide prevention and being a good wingman, shipmate or battle buddy, and starts with recognizing the signs of depression. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, 90 percent of all suicides occur during or after a depressive episode. Keys to suicide prevention are awareness, education and treatment. Not everyone experiences all the symptoms of suicide or suffers to the same degree, but if someone has four or more symptoms for more than two weeks, immediately consult a doctor or mental health professional. Some common symptoms include persistently being in a sad mood; feeling hopeless, helpless, worthless, pessimistic or guilty and substance abuse. Other symptoms include: fatigue; loss of interest in ordinary activities; changes in eating or sleeping patterns; irritability; increased crying; anxiety or panic attacks; and difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions. Some warning signs to watch for include thoughts or talk of suicide; substance abuse; anger; withdrawal; recklessness; preoccupation with death; being suddenly happy or calm; making arrangements to set affairs in order and giving away prized possessions. A person's willingness to talk about depression or suicide with a friend, family member or co-worker can be the first step in getting help and preventing suicide. Don't worry about risking a friendship if you truly feel a life is in danger. It's better to lose a friendship from violating a confidence than it is to go to a funeral. Most of the time they'll thank you for saving their life. For more information or if you feel that a co-worker or friend may be in danger, call Life Skills Support Center at 325-654-3122.
