What To Do If You Suspect Someone Is Suicidal: A Sailor's Guide

What To Do If You Suspect Someone Is Suicidal: A Sailor's Guide

When it comes to the well-being of our fellow Sailors, recognizing when someone is struggling can be a lifesaver. It’s tough to imagine the heavy burdens some may carry, and as a fellow shipmate, it’s your responsibility to notice these signs. So, if you ever find yourself in a situation where you suspect someone might be contemplating suicide, what should you do?

Don't Wait For Signs - Take Action!

Let’s clear this up right from the get-go: don’t wait for someone to reach out for help. If you suspect someone is in crisis, your first instinct should be to “Ask, Care, and Treat”. This straightforward approach is designed to foster a supportive environment where individuals feel comfortable opening up about their struggles.

Ask - The Heart of the Matter

Here’s the thing: asking someone if they are thinking about suicide can feel daunting. You might wonder, "What if I make things worse?" But let’s face it, ignoring the issue won’t help. Gently and compassionately inquiring about their feelings allows you to show that you care. When you ask, you’re not just checking a box; you’re signaling, "Hey, I notice something’s off, and I’m here to talk about it."

Imagine this: You’ve noticed a friend who usually laughs and jokes around suddenly becoming withdrawn. Instead of tiptoeing around the topic, a simple, caring question can make all the difference.

Care - Show Empathy and Understanding

Once you’ve taken the brave step of asking, the next part—caring—is equally important. This is all about empathy and compassion. You might not understand exactly what they are feeling, but it’s essential they feel validated. Look, sometimes just being there and expressing your willingness to listen can lift a heavy burden off someone's shoulders. Sharing that you care and that they’re not alone can encourage them to open up.

Consider saying something like, "I’m here for you, no matter what you’re going through. You can talk to me." This can create the kind of atmosphere where your shipmate feels safe discussing their feelings. Remember, sometimes, people may just need someone to hear them out without judgment.

Treat - Connect to Professional Help

Finally, the treat part is crucial. This isn’t just about feeling sorry for someone; it’s also about taking actionable steps. That might mean getting them connected to a mental health professional or introducing them to resources that are there to help. Whether it’s directing them to a Navy Fleet and Family Support Center or simply suggesting they speak to a chaplain, guiding them toward professional help is vital.

And don’t underestimate the importance of follow-up. Checking in on them after that initial conversation can significantly strengthen your bond and show you really care.

Don't Ignore the Warning Signs

Now, what about the other options? Ignoring the situation or choosing to report it without having that meaningful conversation may not foster change where it’s needed. Suicide prevention isn’t just about reporting; it’s about creating an environment of trust and understanding. By effectively utilizing the “Ask, Care, and Treat” method, you’re fostering an active support system for those in distress.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, every Sailor should be equipped with these skills because, let’s face it, we’re all in this together. We are a community that thrives on teamwork, empathy, and care for one another. So next time you suspect someone might be in trouble, remember: ask, care, and treat. You might just save a life. And trust me, that’s something truly powerful.

The truth is, we can’t afford to have anyone feeling alone in their darkness. Let’s shine a light through our actions and make a real difference.