TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- September is Suicide Prevention Month, and Team Tinker is emphasizing the importance of community, connection, and support in protecting the health and well-being of every Airman, civilian, and family member.
Suicide was responsible for more than 49,000 deaths in 2023 – about one death every 11 minutes – according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Prevention requires an integrated resiliency strategy to raise awareness of stressors, reduce risks that can lead to self-harm and prepare military members, civilians and their families for any challenges that lie ahead.
Suicide prevention is a shared responsibility. By seeing the signs, reducing risk and stepping in as a wingman, every member of the Tinker community can make a difference. Sometimes the smallest check-in can have life-saving impact.
At Tinker Air Force Base, suicide prevention resources are available through multiple channels. The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can be reached by calling or texting 988, or through online chat at 988lifeline.org. Base-specific resources, including points of contact for Tinker Helping Agencies, can be found at Tinker Helping Agencies.
Building resilience is central to prevention and readiness. The five pillars of resilience—spiritual, physical, mental, social and financial—are critical to sustaining our health and helping Airmen bounce back from setbacks or challenges.
Throughout September, Tinker will host events highlighting prevention and resilience while encouraging those who feel depressed or alone to seek help.
This month, and every month, Team Tinker is committed to strengthening resilience and ensuring no one faces life’s challenges alone.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:
Sept. 2 – 5: Leadership Walk Abouts
Sept. 8 – 9: ASIST Workshop (Registration required. Contact the Integrated Resilience Office at 405-734-3600)
Sept. 10: Suicide Prevention Day
Sept. 11: safeTALK Workshop (Registration required. Contact the Integrated Resilience Office at 405-734-3600)
Sept. 16 – 17: Speaker Event
Tues: 72 ABW: 1000, Base Auditorium
552 ACW: 1400 & 1500, Fannin Hall
Weds: AFSC: 0900, Microsoft Teams
Sept. 17: Leadership Luncheon (Click here for a link to register)
Resilience Dinner (Click here for a link to register)
Sept. 19: Resilience Relay
0800, Bldg. 3001 – OK Room
Sept. 24: 5-Pillar Workshop (Click here for a link to register)
Sept. 30: Candlelight Vigil (Click here for a link to register)