In an effort to bring stronger awareness to suicide prevention, Training Support Center (TSC), Great Lakes, promoted the Navy's message of "1SmallAct" during special training sessions for staff and students Sept. 4-6.

The message encourages all members to learn the acronym ACT; “ASK” directly are you thinking of killing yourself, show that you “CARE” by listening without judgment, and get immediate help to “TREAT” the Sailor. The training featured speakers and video clips of Sailors sharing their personal stories in experiencing the loss of a loved one to suicide as well as others who have had previous suicidal thoughts and even an attempt on one's life.

“Our Sailors and staff are our most important resource we have in our organization,” said Capt. Mark Meskimen, commanding officer of TSC. “We all have an obligation to look out for one another, whether they are Department of Defense (DOD) civilian or active military personnel. In this Navy family we look out for each other.”

That commitment the commanding officer asked of the attendees during suicide prevention and awareness training is one that goes further than a one-day or month-long commitment during a particular month. It is something the command is dedicated to year-long.

 “During suicide prevention and awareness month, the Navy directs that everybody receives annual training,” said Fire Controlman Aegis 1st Class Randall Bushu, a Navy military training instructor and suicide prevention coordinator for TSC. “Of course we all know that suicide prevention and awareness has to be a daily endeavor to reach those who may have suicidal thoughts. All members of the Navy community should lead by example and take proactive steps toward strengthening physical, psychological and emotional wellness on a daily basis, recognizing when it’s necessary to seek help.”

The first part of awareness and prevention is to recognize the warning signs: seeing no reason for living, having no sense of meaning or purpose in life; anxiousness, agitation, nightmares, inability to sleep or excessive sleeping; feeling as though there is no way out; feeling hopeless about oneself, others or the future; isolation from friends, family, usual activities, society; feelings of rage, uncontrollable anger, seeking revenge; acting without regard for consequences; dramatic changes in mood; and suicidal thoughts.

"Life can be difficult, contain a lot of challenges especially being the military,” Bushu said. “So, if we know the warning signs and risks factors we can prevent some of the thoughts from becoming actions. In order to get ahead of the problem it is going to take the Navy as a community, everybody being trained and aware of the warning signs and feeling comfortable engaging and getting people the help that they need.”

If warning signs are recognized, engagement is a start to getting the person help. Ask the individual if they are having suicidal thoughts. If they are, do not leave them and get help immediately.

There are many avenues to seek help.  The Military Crisis Line offers confidential support for service members and their families. They can be reached by calling 800-273-8255. Chaplains can be contacted in confidence and local Navy Fleet and Family Support Centers offer access to qualified counselors.

“If anybody needs help, please ask for help,” Meskimen said. “We have many resources available to you; or you can go talk to a chief petty officer, or even talk to me. If anybody needs help, it is a noble thing to ask for help.”

Get more information about the Navy from US Navy facebook or twitter.

For more news from Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group 2, visit www.navy.mil/.