022240Z SEP 15
MARADMIN 436/15
SUBJ/SUICIDE PREVENTION AND LABOR DAY SAFETY//
POC/L. LOVE/CIV/UNIT: HQMC MFC/-/TEL: 703-784-0275//
GENTEXT/REMARKS/1. Before this holiday weekend, all leaders, down to the lowest level, will reengage their Marines and provide immediate assistance to those who are demonstrating risk for suicide. The fight against suicide is one that requires continuous attention of all leaders. Leaders will intensify their efforts and provide particular assistance to those Marines who are experiencing stressors. Common risk factors for suicide include, but not limited to; relationship difficulties, legal problems i.e., divorce, separation, ending of relationships, times of transition, financial strain, experiencing significant medical issues.
2. Publicly and individually encourage Marines to use available resources before stress becomes distress. Sharing appropriate personal stories of accessing help can send a powerful message to junior Marines.
3. Commanders have the following training available to assist their suicide prevention efforts: Unit Marine Awareness Prevention Integrated Training (UMAPIT), suicide prevention modules and the Never Leave a Marine Behind suicide prevention curriculum found at the “MAPIT Dashboard”: https://ehqmc.usmc.mil/sites/family/mfc/MAPIT/SitePages/MAPIT_Splash.aspx.
4. Chaplains are vital in providing assistance to Marines and their families 24/7. Leaders will reiterate prior to the holiday weekend the confidential care provided by chaplains to Marines and their families and instruct Marines to remind their families of this unique resource.
5. Installations and communities offer many resources by providing assistance to Marines and their families which include the Community Counseling Program, Marine Intercept Program, DSTRESS LINE (1-877-476-7734), and Military Family Life counselors.
6. Leaders should remind Marines the DSTRESS LINE is a confidential resource available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Recommend all Marines save the DSTRESS LINE phone number (1-877-476-7734) in their personal cell phones
7. Leaders at all levels must continue to rapidly assist their Marines and act immediately before problems escalate. Engaged leadership is the best prevention effort to combat suicide.
8. It is expected that all leaders will engage their Marines regarding holiday safety to include recreational activities, motor vehicle safety and alcohol consumption prior to their release for the Labor Day holiday.
9. Release authorized by Lieutenant General James B. Laster, Director, Marine Corps Staff.//