JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Tex. -- The Air Force Wounded Warrior Program continues the conversation on Suicide Awareness and Prevention throughout the remainder of September. The emphasis is on telling people to #BeThere for each other; connecting with those who may need help the most. According to the National Alliance on Mental Health, suicidal thoughts can affect anyone, leaving them with feelings of “shame and stigma” that prevent them from seeking help. By openly discussing this difficult topic the goal is to reduce the stigma so those who need help, get help.
Each week in September AFW2 will continue the conversation while simultaneously providing additional information and resources for wounded, ill and injured service members, their caregivers and families through virtual service delivery. The following events are open to the public to view on the main AFW2 Facebook page.
Tuesday – September 15th, 11:00 a.m. CDT – Ambassador Testimony with Senior Master Sgt. Benjamin Seekell
Wednesday – September 16th – 11:00 a.m. CDT – Empowerment in Transition discussion with Sentinels of Freedom
Thursday – September 17th – 2:00 p.m. CDT – Wellness and Resiliency Program help Build a Box of Hope
Friday – September 18th – 2:00 p.m. CDT – Virtual Adaptive Sports Competition featuring Fit Games
AFW2 is also taking submissions for the 2.2 mile run/walk initiative where members of the audience walk or run 2.2 miles and share their thoughts on the importance of suicide awareness and prevention. Take a look at a recent submission from the 2nd Air Force Command Chief Master Sgt. Adam Vizi. You can send your submissions to AFW2Program@gmail.com for inclusion in the on-going conversation.
Additional resources for Suicide Awareness and Prevention can be found on the Invisible Wounds Initiative page and the Air Force Resilience Program page.