Suicide warning signs are observable and different for every person. A common warning is change. That’s why friends and family, relatives and co-workers are usually the first to notice. People at risk for suicide may have mood changes, appear hopeless, depressed, agitated or angry. It’s important to ask about reasons behind the change.

Watch for these warning signs:

• Talk about death, wanting to die or killing themselves
• Talk about feeling empty, hopeless or having no reason to live
• Talk about guilt, shame or feeling trapped with no way out
• Talk about being a burden, withdrawing from friends/family
• Developing a plan to kill themselves (online searches)
• Using alcohol or drugs more often
• Saying goodbye or making a will

Suicide Risk Factors are stressful conditions or situations that if not discussed or resolved may increase the possibility of suicide.

Airmen, Guardians and families are resilient--they learn to adapt and overcome all kinds of challenges. They deal with life stressors very well most of the time.  However, they are so dedicated to being there for each other, they may forget to seek help for themselves. We all need help at one time or another--don't hesitate to ask for it.

Military One Source offers tools and assistance to tackle Risk Factors such as:

• Relationship or family problems
• Legal challenges or financial problems
• Medical issues
• Sleep concerns
• Workplace challenges

The Family Advocacy office and other support programs are available at most active duty installations.

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention provides helpful articles and tools on mental health and factors that can contribute to suicide.

Osan Mental Health Services provide professional counseling and mental health care.
DSN: 784-2148 | Comm: +0505-784-2148

Military & Family Life Counselors (MFLC) provide confidential counseling for service members and families.
DSN: 784-5440

Personal Financial Counselors can aid in managing finances to reduce stress.
Comm: +010-5763-4968

Get to know your support tools and teams--and use them--they are here for you.

Partners, spouses, adult family members and loved ones are often the first to notice suicide warning signs. The Department of the Air Force offers an online training video, Equipping Family Members to Help Airmen in Distress, to help us all see the warning signs, increase protective factors, strengthen bonds and learn about the resources, offices and programs ready to help.

Frequent moves, family separations and deployments are part of the unique challenges of military life. We manage those situations in addition to the typical stressors most Americans face--such as job satisfaction, relationship issues and financial hardship.

We’ve been helping military families face these unique challenges for years.  Let us help yours.

Click here to learn about additional resources.