Learn How 2 B1

Someone you know may need a Battle Buddy – B1.

Suicide is a national health problem in the United States.  Not just in the general population, but also within our Military Branches and the National Guard.   

In 2010, suicides in the Army, National Guard and Army Reserve increased 24.4%.  On average, 25 soldiers (both active and inactive status) were lost to suicide every month of 2010.  Suicides, among the National Guard and Army Reserve, in 2010, almost doubled the number of suicides in 2009.  

These are all staggering statistics, but there is also some good news.  Suicide is PREVENTABLE.  Four out of five individuals who attempted suicide gave clear warning signs before the attempt.  That means that 80% of the time, if we have learned the warning signs and know how to respond, we have a chance to save our friends.  Have a plan in place and be ready to take action should you realize a friend is struggling.  Don’t be afraid to get involved.

Will you be ready to B1?

Rascal Flatts and The Jason Foundation have joined together in a National Campaign to help you learn how to B1 for your Battle Buddy (or his/her family) who may be hurting.  It isn’t hard to do and we aren’t suggesting that you try to counsel your friends.  Together, we’ll come up with a plan to help you feel more comfortable about talking with your Battle Buddy and know where to go for help.
There are three things you will need to remember – we’ll call them the three B’s:

  • B Aware

  • B Able

  • B Prepared

R U ready to B1 for a friend?

Are you ready to B1 for your Battle Buddy?

Great! You are about to join with Rascal Flatts and The Jason Foundation in the B1 Military Project.  Let’s get started with Step One – Be Aware – Understanding the “Silent Epidemic” of Suicide.

There are three things that you will need to remember – we’ll call them the three B’s:

Get Started!

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How to B1

Be Aware

Be aware and understand the problem of suicide within the Army, National Guard and Army Reserve.

  • In 2010, suicides in the Army, National Guard and Army Reserve increased 24.4%.
  • Suicides in the Army National Guard and Army Reserve in 2010 almost doubled those in 2009.
  • The Army reported 156 active duty deaths by suicide and 145 suicides among guardsmen and reservists.
  • Of the 112 guardsmen lost to suicide, more than 50% had not deployed.
  • Suicide is PREVENTABLE.

By being part of the B1 Project, you can help take some of the "silence" away from the "silent epidemic" of youth suicide by learning about the problem and making a plan to help your friends who may be struggling.

Be Able to Identify

Be able to identify those who may be struggling with suicidal ideation. Learn the warning signs and risk factors:

  • Dramatic mood changes
  • Depression; hopelessness and helplessness
  • Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities
  • Talking or hinting about suicide
  • Rehearsal of suicide acts
  • Withdrawal from family, friends and activities
  • Previous suicide attempts
  • Severe or prolonged stress
  • Significant change in performance
  • Finalizing personal affairs
  • Giving away personal possessions
  • Legal, financial and/or occupational problems
  • Increasing alcohol or drug use
  • Family history of suicide
  • Acting bizarre or unusual (based on your knowledge of the person)
  • Readjustment difficulties following deployment

(NOTE: This is not an all-inclusive list of warning signs and risk factors.)

Be Prepared to Ask and Act paget

The warning signs and risk factors mentioned in Step 2 are not the only signs which a soldier who is struggling may exhibit. If the behavior is out of character for the person as you know them, the behavior at least warrants some questions or conversation as to what is happening with them. Have a plan of action ready in the event you recognize the person may be having suicidal thoughts. Don’t be afraid to get involved. Some resources for help:

  • Soldier's first line leader
  • Chaplain
  • Behavioral Health Professional
  • Emergency Personnel: 911

Be a Part of the Solution

By entering your email address and clicking "I'll B1", you are pledging to be there for your friends. Someone you know may need a friend - B1.

Thank You For Your Pledge -- Pass B1 Along to Others

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