Mental Health offers suicide prevention assistance through resiliency skills Published Sept. 29, 2015 By Senior Airman Frank Casciotta 482nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. -- "Are you thinking about killing yourself" is a simple question that may have saved the lives of 79 Airmen who took their own lives this year. "There are so many reasons why people commit suicide, which is why it's so important for individuals to build their own resiliency skills and be aware of behavioral changes in those around them," said Mary Arnold, the 482nd Fighter Wing director of psychological health. While the reasons that people decide to end their own lives vary, there are some consistent behavioral changes. "Signs to watch for are mood changes, irritability, feelings of hopelessness, feeling like a burden, difficulty concentrating, isolation, diminished job performance, weight gain or loss and alcohol and drug abuse," said Arnold. "Sometimes it's too late to help someone, but more often than not, it isn't. The problem is that people have a hard time identifying risk factors because they have their own worries. "One signal to watch for in particular is a sudden shift from down and out to happy, she continued It could mean that the person has made the decision to kill themselves and feel relieved because they think their troubles will be over." Though the daily grind of workspaces sometimes makes forming relationships difficult, people can save lives by making an effort to getting to know each other and asking simple question when they see these warning signs and sense something amiss with their wingmen. "Just ask 'are you thinking about killing yourself,' said Arnold. "Rarely do people answer dishonestly because most people want help but are afraid to ask. It's also why it is important to know the people you work with on a personal level, so that people feel comfortable asking the question and those who need help feel comfortable answering." When it comes to suicide prevention, having a mental skillset revolving around resiliency can be invaluable to individuals who will face adversity. Some have these skills innately, but many do not. Arnold encourages those who wish to learn a new skillset or those who are struggling with personal issues can visit her at the Mental Health Office. Unfortunately, the Mental Health Office has a stigma that brands it as a career-ender. However, when it comes to reporting issues, mental health professionals are obligated to take action if a person is likely to harm themselves, other people or the mission. "I hear all the time that getting help will affect your career negatively, and it is simply not true," said Arnold. "In the seven years I've been doing this for the military, I have only had to take action on cases that involved domestic violence. Other than that, I've helped people work through their problems without needing to inform anyone. The biggest mistake people make is not coming to me sooner." For more information on mental health services here call 786-415-7615.