Kicking the winter blues; suicide prevention

  • Published
  • By Glyn Gardner
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  With winter right around the corner, it's important for Icemen to be aware of warning signs of depression and ways to remedy them.

Suicide is the second leading cause of death in Alaska among teens and adults up to age 35. In the Fairbanks area alone 38 people took their own lives between 2003 and 2005.

Suicide is preventable. So, how do you know if someone you know may be considering suicide?

Some classic warning signs of possible suicide are: Loss of interest in hobbies or appearance, giving away of prized possessions, a sudden personality change, or a preoccupation with death.

Others include: Fatigue, increased need for sleep, decreased levels of energy, difficulty concentrating, and increased desire to be alone, weight gain or loss.

Dr. (Maj.) Larry Kroll, 354th Medical Group life skills flight, emphasizes that everyone gets down sometimes, especially when there is a lack of sunlight.

"It's the same for people who travel a lot across many time zones," he said. "You're internal clock tells you it's three in the morning, but your eyes tell you the sun is up."

During the long winter days, it's easy to get down in the dumps, and feel like you can't get up.

"It's normal to have bad days; It's also normal to have some good days," he said. "The trouble comes when there are no good days--now you have a red flag."

So, how can you help fight off the winter blues? In a word: Activity.

"Staying active helps keep your energy level up, and keeps your mind occupied," Dr. Kroll said. "Anything that makes you happy, keeps you mentally and physically active, and is legal; do it and enjoy it."

One reason for the high rate of suicides in Alaska may be related to the lack of sunlight during the winter. Researchers believe that some people are more sensitive to lack of sunlight and are more likely to get depressed during winters or overcast days.

Several places on base also have full spectrum lights. These are supposed to fool your brain by simulating sunlight.

"We usually have a run on the light room all winter long," said Susan Runyan, 354th Medical Group Health and Wellness Center dietician.

Aside from the HAWC, the mental health flight also has a full spectrum light. The HAWC's light is used on a first-come, first-served basis; however, they do make appointments for persons who have a prescription from Mental Health.

If you know someone who may be suicidal, you need to intervene. First, recognize the warning signs. If you don't see it, you can't help. Second, talk to them. Sometimes that's all it takes.

But know your limitations.

"You can be a good wingman for someone to vent too," Dr. Kroll said. "But, the best thing you can do is to know where to get help. Ask them if they need to talk to someone else, get them to that person or agency."

Eielson has many resources someone can use. The chaplains, mental health, family support and family advocacy, your commander and first sergeant, and security forces are available to help.

If you are contemplating suicide there are some things you need to think about. Your actions affect more than just you.

"A suicide is like throwing a stone in a pond," said Dr. Kroll.

The splash represents those affected by the death. The ripples can reach everyone in a small community like Eielson.

"Family members are by far the most affected. Many people forever identify themselves as a survivor of suicide," he said. "Survived children will always be asked how their father died. No one ever really gets over losing someone to suicide."

Every suicide is a tragedy. More importantly, each and every one of us has the potential to save a life. Look for the signs someone might be in trouble. Talk to them. Get help.