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mall ACT can make a difference...and may save a life. Be there for Every Sailor, Every Day.
Ask Care Treat (ACT) is Navy's call-to-action to encourage early intervention when a Sailor is experiencing difficulty navigating stress or may be at risk for suicide. All Sailors and members of the Navy community should be able to recognize the risk factors and warning signs that indicate a potential suicidal crisis, and should feel confident in their ability to ACT:
Ask - Ask directly: are you thinking of killing yourself?
Care - Listen without judgment. Show that you care.
Treat - Get the Sailor immediate assistance. Escort him or her to the nearest chaplain, trusted leader or medical professional for treatment.
Annual case reviews consistently reveal missed opportunities to "connect the dots" when a Sailor is experiencing the negative effects of stress, psychological health concerns or exhibiting uncharacteristic behavior. Active communication and ongoing dialogue about stress, psychological health and suicide can motivate positive action and open the door for lifesaving intervention. Talking about suicide doesn't give a person morbid thoughts; rather, it's one of the most helpful things we can do to uphold a culture that supports seeking help as a sign of strength. It's about being there for Every Sailor, Every Day.
Click the links in the side bar to learn more about risk factors, warning signs and protective factors.
Did You Know?
Although some suicides are planned in advance, the majority of suicides and attempts occur within an hour of a crisis and are impulsive reactions to stress. Numerous studies indicate that while easy access to a lethal method (means) of death reduces the likelihood of survival, limiting access to lethal methods can be life saving. Firearms are the most lethal and common method of suicide across both U.S. military and civilian populations. Having unsecured firearms in the home increase the risk of suicide 3 fold for all household members. Securing all weapons with a gun lock or gun safe, and securing ammunition separately from firearms, are best safety practices that can prevent suicide.