The Source for Navy News
CNP Promotes Suicide Awareness
Story Number: NNS040204-01
Release Date: 2/4/2004 9:18:00 AM
By Journalist 2nd Class Kimberly Rodgers, Navy News Service
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- In a Jan. 27 interview, Chief of Naval Personnel Vice Adm. Gerry Hoewing addressed the issue of suicide in the Navy.
While the number of suicides in the Navy and the Marine Corps is below the national average, suicide has been within the top three leading causes of death in the two services during the past decade.
"One Sailor lost to suicide is simply one too many," said Hoewing. "I encourage all of you to do everything you can to make sure we do not lose anyone to suicide. We, as a Navy, are working hard to prevent such tragic losses."
Intervention and covenant leadership, according to Hoewing are key to prevention.
"Don't be afraid to ask questions. Ask a lot of questions. If you have a friend, a shipmate or anyone you feel could possibly be considering suicide as an alternative, you should intervene right away," Hoewing added.
The Navy's Suicide Prevention Program offers basic information Sailors should know through AID LIFE: Ask, Intervene and Don’t keep it a secret; Locate help, Inform the chain of command, Find someone to stay with the Sailor and Expedite help.
Relationship conflicts, depression, pending military or legal proceedings, and alcohol and drug abuse could all contribute to suicidal behavior, but Hoewing reminded Sailors it can happen to anyone.
"Suicide isn't limited to any gender, age, race or ethnic category that would lead one person to be more susceptible to suicide than another."
Bringing to the front one of the Navy's core values - courage - Hoewing expressed to Sailors who might be having problems or considering hurting themselves to remember that asking for help is not considered a weakness.
"I strongly recommend seeking early assistance. It's O.K. to seek that assistance. It's not a weakness; in fact, it's a strength."
For related news, visit the Chief of Naval Personnel Navy NewsStand page at www.news.navy.mil/local/cnp.
For more news from around the fleet, visit the Navy NewsStand at www.news.navy.mil.
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