Every year, we dedicate time to suicide awareness and prevention. While this is a constant commitment, this concentrated effort provides an opportunity to strengthen our resolve to protect every shipmate, every day. As chaplains, we are honored to serve the Coast Guard, a service whose mission demands courage and vigilance – never more important than when it comes to the well-being of our people.
The best way we honor the Coast Guard Core Values of Honor, Respect, and Devotion to Duty is to actively protect our shipmates in need. When it comes to someone's well-being, your attention and care are essential.
Hesitation can be deadly. We know many reasons might cause us to hesitate when a shipmate seems troubled: fear of intruding, worry about saying the wrong thing, or concerns about potential career impacts. But Suicide Prevention Awareness reminds us that nothing should outweigh the importance of connecting a shipmate who is struggling with life-saving intervention.
The potential impact on a member's career is not the 'worst-case scenario' many imagine. As I’ve heard the Commandant say many times, asking for help is a sign of strength and courage, not weakness. The Coast Guard cares and will provide the support needed. Putting a shipmate’s life first is always the right thing to do.
Never underestimate the power of connection. We are not created to be alone. Even the smallest gesture – making eye contact, a simple "How are you?" – can make a difference. No one in the Coast Guard should feel alone. Reach out. Be present.
To that point, MCPOCG Phil Waldron, reminds us, “We are all leaders at some level in the Coast Guard, and leaders’ silence on mental health sends a very loud message. Leaders must have the courage to speak up, either on behalf of those around them or for themselves. Asking for help if you or others need it is a duty that we cannot shy away from or stigmatize.”
ASIST, SafeTALK, and other training provide invaluable skills that equip us to intervene effectively and confidently. We strongly encourage you to seek out these training opportunities. Contact your local Work-Life Office or chaplain to learn more about available courses and schedules. Even without formal training, the most basic skill is simply noticing when someone seems 'off' and taking the time to ask how they're doing. These small acts of connection can make a profound difference.
It is paramount that you care for yourself and protect your mental and physical health each day. Remember why you chose to serve. You are daughters, sons, parents, and friends. You bring hopes and dreams to this Service. We need each voice, each set of gifts, and each unique skill. All of you build a stronger Coast Guard. You cannot effectively care for others if you do not first care for yourself.
A positive attitude is crucial, especially when facing challenging missions or personal circumstances. We are all in this together and must stand the watch as one force!
Please know that I and all of my chaplains – active, reserve, and auxiliary – are ready to support you, whether to help a shipmate, yourself, or a family member. We are here to listen, offer guidance, and connect you with resources.
Suicide Prevention Resources:
CG-SUPRT Program: 855-CGSUPRT (247-8778)
Coast Guard Chaplains: (855) 872-4242
Coast Guard National Command Center: 1-800-DAD-SAFE (323-7233)
Military Crisis Line (Phone): 1-800-273-8255; Press 1
Military Crisis Line (Text): 838255
Military Crisis Line (For Deaf and Hard of Hearing): 1-800-799-4889
National Hopeline Network: 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (For Deaf and Hard of Hearing): 1-800-799-4TTY(4889)
-USCG-