September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time for us to reflect on the importance of taking care of one another and recommitting to the health, readiness, and dignity of every Coast Guard member. This year’s theme, “Connectedness Saves Lives: Every Coast Guard Man and Woman, Every Day,” reminds us that even the smallest acts of connection and compassion can make a life-saving difference.
Suicide prevention isn’t just a one-month campaign—it’s a year-round mission. But September gives us an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the issue, break down stigma, and empower every Coast Guard member to play an active role in building a culture of care and support. One life lost is one too many, and together, we can make a difference.
The Office of Support Services is hosting three MS Teams presentations throughout Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Can’t make it? No worries, all three will be recorded for on-demand viewing on the Suicide Prevention Program site.
Positive action
Many of us want to support our shipmates and help prevent suicide, but it can be hard to know where to start. The good news is that there are simple, impactful ways to make a difference at your unit. Whether it’s fostering connection, promoting awareness, or encouraging help-seeking behavior, every effort counts. Here are some great ways to increase prevention efforts at your unit:
Awareness and Visibility
- Leaders share personal messages or videos affirming their commitment to suicide prevention
- Display Suicide Prevention Awareness Month materials like posters and banners to spark conversations
- Share resources like Military OneSource, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, and Coast Guard behavioral health providers
- Create a “Wall of Hope” where members can leave anonymous messages of encouragement and support
Education and Training
- Host suicide prevention training standdowns and unit-level briefings on warning signs and referral processes
- Organize discussions led by Chiefs’ Messes and Officer Wardrooms on how to support shipmates in distress
- Invite behavioral health staff, chaplains, or resiliency coordinators to explain available services and confidentiality
Unit Connection and Peer Support
- Have “Coffee with a Shipmate” to encourage one-on-one check-ins
- Organize morale-building events like group hikes, yoga, or team sports
- Establish informal peer buddy systems to promote regular check-ins
- Ensure isolated personnel, such as watchstanders and duty crews, are included in outreach efforts
Leadership, Postvention, and Sustained Engagement
- Highlight members trained in SafeTALK, ASIST, or those using the DHS Columbia Protocol App
- Recognize and reward members who have the DHS Columbia Protocol App and encourage others to download it
- Involve ombudsmen and family resource specialists to extend outreach to families
Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling, there are resources available 24/7:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for confidential support. In emergencies, call 911.
- Military OneSource: Call 800-342-9647 or visit militaryonesource.mil for support for active-duty members, reservists, and their families
- Federal Occupational Health (FOH): Civilian employees and their families can call 800-222-0364 or visit foh4you.com.
- Regional Behavioral Health Providers (RBHPs): Contact your unit medical officer or email BehavioralHealth@uscg.mil for a referral
- Chaplains: Call 1-855-USCG-CHC (872-4242) or visit the Chaplain of the Coast Guard website for support
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 and press 1, text 838255, or visit veteranscrisisline.net for confidential help
Connectedness
Suicide prevention is a shared responsibility. Whether you’re a commanding officer, a junior enlisted member, or a civilian employee, your actions can save lives. A simple conversation, a kind gesture, or a willingness to listen can make all the difference.
Let’s commit to being there for one another—not just in September, but every day. Through connection, compassion, and commitment, we can create a culture where everyone is and feels supported and valued.
Remember: Connectedness Saves Lives. Every Coast Guard Man and Woman, Every Day.
For more information or to get involved, contact your local Work-Life Employee Assistance Program Coordinator or reach out to the Suicide Prevention Program Manager, CDR LaMar Henderson, at LaMar.B.Henderson@uscg.mil.
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