HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- Team Hanscom has several events planned for the month of September to raise awareness during National Suicide Prevention Month.
National Suicide Prevention Month is a time to raise awareness of this national crisis, to share prevention resources and information and to provide support to those affected by suicide.
“Suicide is preventable,” said Kristin Wright, 66th Integrated Prevention and Resilience program supervisor. “A simple way we can work toward preventing suicide is to have conversations about suicide prevention all year round.”
The Hanscom Integrated Prevention and Resilience team has scheduled several events throughout the month to focus on awareness and the many resources available to the base community.
The following events are open to anyone with installation access:
- On Sept. 18, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m., the community is invited to paint rocks with positive and encouraging messages which will then be placed around the installation. Finders are encouraged to post photos on the Integrated Prevention and Resilience Facebook and Instagram pages using the hashtag #HanscomRocks.
- On Sept. 20, starting at 6:30 p.m., a Glow Run will be held in the chapel parking lot. The run is sponsored by the Integrated Prevention and Resilience Office and the 66th Security Forces Squadron.
- On Sept. 27, starting at 6:30 p.m., Resilience Night will take place at the Youth Center. Hanscom AFB helping agencies will educate teens about the importance of resilience through fun and engaging activities.
Suicide has been identified as a national health problem, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Depression, anxiety and substance abuse are most often associated with suicide.
Warning signs to look for include changes in behavior, especially those that are entirely new and related to a sudden loss or change, increased use of alcohol or drugs, isolating from family and friends and visiting or calling people to say goodbye.
According to Wright, it’s important for those struggling with thoughts of suicide to have access to mental health care, and to feel a sense of connection to family, friends and their community.
“Connectedness can be strengthened by making a deliberate effort to check in with friends and family or meeting new people,” Wright said. “Attending community events like the ones offered this month are a great way to feel connected within the Hanscom community.”
The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, along with prevention and crisis resources.
For more information on any events or for further assistance, contact Wright at kristin.wright.1@us.af.mil.