JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. -- September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. While suicide prevention is important to address year-round, Suicide Prevention Awareness Month promotes a dedicated time to come together collectively and commit to making suicide prevention a priority.
During the month of September, we aim to raise awareness about this multifaceted issue. The theme of Suicide Prevention Month 2023 shines the spotlight on cultivating community connections, “Connect to Protect” –connectedness, highlights the critical role relationships and interpersonal connections to family, friends, the community, and resources can play in preventing suicide.
On Aug. 31, 2023, Joint Base Andrews leadership came together to sign the Proclamation for Suicide Prevention Month 2023, endorsing a commitment to preventing suicide. The Proclamation was on display in the 459 ARW HQ Lobby, alongside 459 ARW Director of Psychological Health (DPH) Rachel O’Reilly who conducted suicide prevention outreach on September 8-9, 2023.
In addition to suicide prevention resources, O’Reilly provided JBA Luminaria Memorial Display kits to those who wished to honor loved ones lost to suicide. O'Reilly says if you were unable to meet with her during outreach hours or prefer to schedule an alternate time to meet for confidential consultation, please contact her directly at (703)347-5692.