Suicide Leaves Bruises: Stay Connected

  • Published
  • By Shannon Hall
  • Air Force Wounded Warrior Program

There are many people walking around the world today, who at one point in their life, were ready to end it all…then they felt a connection. No matter who the connection came from; family, friend, coworker, therapist, it changed their life forever. Some connections happen unexpectedly, while others choose it as their job. The Air Force Wounded Warrior (AFW2) Program, non-medical care managers (NMCM) primary duty is to stay connected to their Warriors.

As a part of their responsibilities, AFW2 NMCM, must have some form of connection and communication with their Warriors every 30 days. If they notice that their Warrior is acting a bit differently, or struggling with life stressors, they will make contact as much as possible until they are sure the Warrior is safe and getting the help they need.

“Generally, follow-up contacts are made every 30 days, but if a member is reaching back constantly and going through more stress, I touch base with them weekly,” said Cynthia Iniguez, AFW2 non-medical care manager. “I am responsible for staying in touch and ensuring immediate help is available for that Airman and their family when necessary.”

AFW2 enrolls the most severely injured, ill and wounded members into the program. With these injuries and illnesses there comes a lot of mental triggers that can cause suicidal thoughts and be hard to work through alone, especially with September being Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month.

“The matters in which an Airman is identified for this program has them at a very vulnerable time in their lives with physical and mental disabilities,” Cynthia said. “I’ve sadly had a total of five Airman commit suicide, and in most cases, warriors who struggle with suicide are generally trying to handle matters that are not within their control. That’s where I step in and communicate with them my responsibilities and stay connected throughout the entire process.”

When you build a strong connection with others, you learn their personality, their quirks and when they are not themselves. Noticing the signs when someone may be “off” is important in saving their life if they are contemplating suicide. These connections are a lifeline.  

“You can’t notice any signs until you build trust and rapport with Airmen. Once we have solid communication between the two of us, I can usually see when a crisis is brewing and get them help,” Cynthia said.

During this time of distancing, it may be hard to stay connected face-to-face but there are many other avenues to keep that relationship strong. Phone calls, emails, text messages and of course social media are just a few ways to stay united. Be sure you are checking in on one another, doing whatever it takes (WIT) to let others know they are not alone. Any connection can save a life.

“Communicate, connect and allow someone the opportunity to help. Problems may seem too much for one or two individuals, but for a community there are better odds and it always turns out better together,” Cynthia said.

Throughout the month of September, the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program is hosting a 2.2 mile walk or run campaign to bring awareness to suicide. If you would like to participate, please email videos, photos and short messages to AFW2Program@gmail.com. These submissions will be posted on AFW2’s social media platforms throughout September for Suicide Awareness Month.

AFW2 is continuously hosting virtual socials live on Facebook to help everyone cope during this time. Visit the program’s Facebook page to hear stories of resiliency, engage in wellness activities and live sporting competitions hosted by Air Force Wounded Warriors. For additional information, visit www.woundedwarrior.af.mil to refer an Airman to the program, read about the program’s mission and learn about additional services offered to caregivers and families.