Military and civilian staff from Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) participated in suicide prevention training at Naval Air Station Pensacola Sept. 13.

In 2012, the Department of the Navy declared September as Suicide Prevention Month, and each year military and civilian personnel are challenged to find ways to openly communicate about suicide prevention and foster a culture that views seeking assistance as a sign of strength.

Dr. Bryan Glazier, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) from the Fleet and Family Support Center at NAS Pensacola, provided the training.

"Suicide has devastating effects that ripple from the individual's family and friends, to their colleagues, and their commands," Glazier said. "It is imperative that we all do our part in trying to help and assist our colleagues and friends who may be struggling, and this training helps to bring a greater awareness to suicide prevention."

Rear Adm. Mike White, commander, Naval Education and Training Command, attended the training with his staff and emphasized the importance of being proactive.

"If we understand how each individual plays a role in suicide prevention, we can recognize and take action when a shipmate or co-worker needs support," said White. "The more we train and educate on the risk factors, the better prepared we are to help those affected -- both shipmates and families."

Addressing the packed room, Glazier opened his presentation with a short video clip providing an example of how a distress call will not be acted on in a timely manner if it isn't recognized. He stressed everyone is a first responder in suicide prevention and must be alert for possible signs of trouble.

Glazer referred to the Operational Stress Control (OSC) program from the 21st Century Sailor Suicide Prevention Branch to explain how the green zone represents a fit, healthy and focused level of manageable stress and the yellow, orange, and red zones represent increasing negative stress and illness. Glazer stressed the importance of encouraging co-workers to "get back to green."

Additionally, Glazer suggested the acronym "ACT", which represents Ask, Care, and Treat as a tool to remember steps everyone can follow. He showed a video clip of a distressed shipmate being encouraged by another shipmate to explain it doesn't matter if the perfect words can't be found, but being there for someone shows you care.

"It is extremely important to be reminded about the importance of us all being first responders in the prevention of suicide," Master Chief Navy Counselor Jake Brady stated at the conclusion of the training. "This was a good refresher and provides guidance for what to do if you find yourself struggling when faced with a real-life scenario."

The session included staff from the NETC Fleet Integration, Learning and Development Division, which teleconferenced from Dam Neck, Virginia. Joining the headquarters staff were personnel from local Naval Service Training Command departments, and the Naval Education and Training Security Assistance Field Activity (NETSAFA).

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