A Decade of Behavioral Health (BH) Epidemiological Consultations (EPICONS) Lessons Learned
Abstract
This document summarizes over ten years (2008-2020) of Army suicide surveillance and EPICONs. Relationship problems are one of the leading stressors reported by SMs; Lack of quality time with family, poor work-life balance, and physical separation from support systems further erode social resilience. Conversely, SMs who report greater resilience, unit cohesion, or social support are less likely to report suicidal ideation. Demands of sustained high operational tempo have taken a toll on SMs overall social and behavioral health (BH). Alcohol misuse continues to be a problem across the Army; it contributes to behavioral health disorders,misconduct/crimes, suicidal thoughts and behavior, and non-readiness. Though BH stigma appears to have lessened over the last decade, SMs continue to report fears that engaging in behavioral healthcare will result in their being treated differently by their leadership or being perceived as weak. Lack of quality sleep is the leading medically-documented risk factor for suicides among SMs. Those with sleeping problems should consider seeking medical or BH care. Leaders should emphasize the force multiplier benefits of good sleep, consider sleep quality impacts when scheduling activities, and assess physical structural conditions.While the military organizational unit structure can provide a safety net to SMs and their families that may not be available to the general population, SMs need to receive leadership support and establish social support networks.SMs and leaders should familiarize themselves with and encourage others to access local installation, embedded,and unit-organic BH resources. EPICONs may help determine unique local concerns conditions, outcomes, and risks.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2021
- Accession Number
- AD1217083
Entities
People
- Eren Watkins