As we prepare for National Suicide Prevention Awareness month in September, and given the extraordinary strain the COVID-19 pandemic puts on all facets of our life, we all have a responsibility to show genuine concern for others As Cmdr. Sarah Garrett puts it, "good shipmates buoy each other in times of distress, ashore or afloat, on duty or off duty." Please join Cmdr. Sarah Garrett from HSWL SC and Ms. Christiana Montminy, Employee Assistance Program Manager on Aug. 26 from 3:00-4:00 p.m., EDT, as they talk about ways to minimize suicide-related behaviors by promoting wellness and social cohesion.
"We want to shift the narrative about suicide and focus on how we can each be a part of a network of safety," said Garrett.
Garret and Montminy will discuss small success strategies that every person can do to make a difference for someone who may be struggling. For example, "You can make eye contact and share a greeting," said Montminy, "because that is the start of making a real connection with a person and it could be the small action instrumental in shifting someone's mindset when they need it," she said. "Do not overlook it."
If you are interested in learning about these strategies and more, please click this link to attend Wellness Wednesday from your CG computer, personal computer or mobile device. Even if you do not have a CVR.mil account, you can still watch the stream via the link above. If you wish to maintain anonymity, log out of your normal (USCG/DOD) CVR account and join as a guest. You may also call (571) 388-3904; Conference ID 453 387 852#. If you have questions or suggestions, you may e-mail us at wellnesswednesday@uscg.mil.