Getting help is what real warriors do.
— Dr. Jonathan Woodson, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs at the 2011 Suicide Prevention Conference
Overview
Being in the military can be stressful for service members and their families. Everyone reacts to stress and traumatic experiences differently, and some may feel angry or isolated while they are dealing with difficult circumstances. These reactions can be common responses to life events. However, for some, these feelings may be signs of more serious conditions, including depression, traumatic brain injury or post-traumatic stress disorder. People coping with these concerns may feel like there is no escape from their symptoms, leading them to have thoughts of suicide. Fortunately, tools for resilience and recovery are available.
Real Warriors Seek Care
At the 2011 Department of Defense/Veterans Affairs Annual Suicide Prevention Conference, Dr. Jonathan Woodson, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs said a key to preventing suicide is reducing the stigma associated with mental health care. "We have to change the attitudes that all too often keep people from getting the right care at the right time," Woodson said. He stressed that seeking mental health care is a sign of strength, not a sign of weakness adding that, "Getting help is what real warriors do."