HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah – Wing reservists participated in a Resiliency Tactical Pause event to highlight suicide prevention and awareness during the monthly Unit Training Assembly held this weekend.
The Chief of Staff of the Air Force, Gen. David Goldfein, recently asked leaders across the Air Force to set aside time to pause from the mission and discuss this issue because suicide rates in the Air Force are on the rise.
Dennis Gillan, an international speaker on the topic of suicide prevention and mental health advocacy, was the keynote speaker during the event. He lost two brothers to suicide and discussed the importance and value of talking about one’s problems and getting help when needed.
“A joy shared is a joy doubled, and a sadness shared is sadness halved,” he said.
Wing personnel also participated in small group discussions aimed at developing their resiliency strategies and educating them on support services that are available.
Airmen are encouraged to reach out to the following resources should they need mental health support or if they are struggling with suicidal thoughts.
LeeAnn Gossett, the wing’s director of psychological health, is available weekdays and on monthly UTA weekends at (801) 657-1233.
On UTA weekends, Airmen can also reach out to the medical squadron at (801) 777-2622, which has personnel who can offer mental health referrals for providers off base. The wing’s chaplains are available for appointments or walk-ins. Call (801) 775-2646. The chaplain’s office is in Building 120 on the north end of the first floor.
The following 24-hour call lines are available anytime:
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: call 1-800-273-8255 or text 741741
- Military Crisis Line: call 1-800-273-8255, press 1 or text 838255