Airmen learn to bounce back with resiliency training

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Janine Thibault
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Icemen gathered Monday to exercise, listen and speak about various ways of maintaining resilience against today's stressors.

The Air Force-wide stand down focused on providing techniques in the form of mental, physical, social or spiritual practices to help Airmen cope with personal problems, whether involving relationships, finances or depression issues.

"Our first priority is our Airmen," said General James Post, 354th Fighter Wing commander, to Airmen who were gathered for Fit Flag to work on the physical coping skills of the resiliency training.

According to a recent Air Force memorandum, "This stand down is an opportunity to stop and think about what is happening and what steps we can take to reach out to Airmen in need."

With that in mind, Airmen gathered in their established groups for face-to-face discussions to talk about topics of their own choosing and allow for a more personal discussion to take place. This was an opportunity to address things people might not normally choose to share in a large forum.

In one group discussion, participants made suggestions on various topics to give others helpful advice. After an Airman asked a relationship question, other individuals chimed in with examples from their relationships that could help.

At the end of the day, an hour was dedicated to Airmen E-4 and below to highlight ways they could enhance their careers and social lives by highlighting various activities on base as well as in the community to keep them active during the winter months.

Additionally, Airmen were given the tools to ask for help from an agency, supervisor or friend to deal with stressors in a safe manner.

Resiliency training gives everyone the basic tools to manage their personal well-being and to watch out for fellow Airmen who may need assistance.