Fact or myth: suicides increase during the holidays?

  • Published
  • By Maj. Alysia R. Harvey
  • 960th Cyberspace Operations Group Public Affairs
Hoint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas --  It's a common myth that suicide rates increase during the holidays.  However, according to the Center for Disease Control's National Center for Health Statistics, the suicide rate is, in fact, the lowest in December.

The rates actually peak in the spring and the fall. Nevertheless, suicide remains a major public health problem, one that occurs throughout the year, and is the 10th leading cause of death for all Americans.

There have been eight suicides in the U.S. Air Force Reserve this year, and although the CDC's stats debunk a long-standing myth, it is vital that every Airman knows the risk factors and resources available to help prevent suicides.

While this list is not all inclusive, risk factors for suicide include: relationship, financial, legal, and career issues; unemployment; chronic or unresolved medical conditions and isolation.

It should also be noted that another myth about suicide is that a history of deployment is a risk factor. This is not true either. In fact, a history of combat exposure was only noted for 1.7% of all Air Force suicides in 2014 and less than 5% in 2013.

Stats and myths aside, there is one fact that stands and one that all Airmen should know: suicide can be prevented! It is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. As such, there are numerous resources available to help you on base, online, and within the local community. Here are three that are offered by the Department of Defense:

24/7 Military Crisis Line: 1.800.273.8255 (TALK) -- confidential support is only a phone call, click, or text away, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Wingman Toolkit -- a vast collection of resiliency-related articles, programs and resources; also available as an app on both iOS and Android phones. 

Military OneSource --  free, confidential help and comprehensive information on a broad range of topics; available in person, over the phone and online.

In addition to knowing the signs and resources, get to know your fellow Airmen, and help them if you think they are at risk. 

Pay particular attention to social media messages and respond quickly.  Many people are alive today because friends, family, and co-workers were quick to recognize the warning signs of a person in crisis and took the time to physically locate the person and get them the help they needed.

Finally, take care of yourself, and don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Share an aspect of your life with others, especially if you are looking for solutions or need help with something. You'd be surprised how many people may have already negotiated the same challenges you're facing.

Remember, in the words of Maya Angelou, "Nobody, but nobody can make it out here alone!"  So, be ready and willing to help your fellow wingmen, and have the courage to get help for yourself if you need it.