Suicide Prevention Conference Day 2: Building Bridges; Survivor Stories

By DCoE Strategic Communications
June 22, 2012

	Department of Veterans Affairs Undersecretary for Health Dr. Robert Petzel, joined military and health care leaders on the first day of the Annual DoD/VA Suicide Prevention Conference in Washington, D.C. (VA photo by Robert Turtil)

The vital conversation on suicide prevention continued into day two of the annual suicide prevention conference jointly sponsored by the Defense and Veterans Affairs departments, as chaplains discussed spirituality and survivors shared moving stories of hope.

In the keynote address, Navy Rear Adm. Mark L. Tidd spoke of the different “bridges” that connect those who need help and the resources and people that can help them.

“I believe these bridges already exist. There are many resources that are available that enable them to cross the bridge … but they have challenges,” he said. “[We need to reinforce] bridges of trust in four areas — across communities … within the self of the service member or veteran … between peers … and with the institutions established to support them.”

Tidd, chief of Navy chaplains, also encouraged a collaborative transition in care between chaplains, who are often first aware of a concern, and providers to “help to transfer hopelessness to hopefulness.”

Featuring the insight from five chaplain leaders from across the services, a chaplains’ panel highlighted how establishing and maintaining trust, hope and faith with a service member or veteran, was key in suicide prevention.

“Our relational skills are crucial — you need that ability to convey warmth, care and advocacy. We are a safe space for them to open up and say what’s really on their minds,” said Chaplain Lowell S. Kronick, associate director for education at the National Veterans Affairs Chaplain Training Center. “It’s important for us working with other disciplines to do a spiritual assessment of a veteran … refer as appropriate and develop within a framework of a caring community.”

Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors hosted five survivors who shared their stories of a loved one’s suicide. Although the stories were based upon tragedy, each survivor offered messages of hope and insight for future prevention efforts. Ben Harris, whose late brother Michael was denied treatment when he admitted to substance abuse, bravely shared his thoughts on what could be done to save others like Michael.

“Look out for the early warning signs. They should have monitored Michael’s medication more closely … when he disengaged from counseling, they should have followed up immediately,” Harris said. “One matter that is especially important to me is that the admission of alcohol abuse or substance abuse should not be used against our service members; it should be considered a symptom of the illness and treated.”

The knowledge and personal stories shared resonated with an audience invested in advancing suicide prevention efforts across the services and communities so that no one is left behind.

“This conference really opens your eyes. You’re seeing the big picture in asking for help and the many forms it comes in,” said Army Sgt. Bobbie Marie Huntley. “As a medic, it’s helping me know all of the little things I can ask and see — and [the conference] is teaching me that everyone is part of a team in prevention.”

Learn more about the first day of the Suicide Prevention Conference here .

News Categories: News Room , Conferences