SFTRG 1:9

Practice flashcards covering the AF approach to suicide prevention, the ACE model, risk factors, and crisis intervention tactics for Defenders.

What two factors are commonly associated with the desire for suicide?

Perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness.

What is perceived burdensomeness?

Feeling like a burden or liability to others.

What is thwarted belongingness?

Feeling disconnected from others and meaningful relationships.

How many overlapping core training elements make up the AF approach to suicide prevention?

Nine.

What is the purpose of suicide prevention/protective measures?

To reduce suicide through community support, coping skills, and intervention.

What belief should leaders promote regarding seeking help?

Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

What are protective factors for suicide prevention?

Factors that reduce suicide risk and increase resilience.

Name a key protective factor identified in the training.

Unit cohesion and camaraderie.

What are basic risk factors for suicide?

Relationship problems, substance abuse, financial problems, or legal issues.

What life transitions may increase suicide risk?

Retirement, PCS, discharge, and similar changes.

What are advanced warning signs of suicide?

Thoughts of suicide, a plan, intent, or access to means.

What does the acronym ACE stand for?

Ask, Care, Escort.

What is the 'Ask' step of ACE?

Ask directly if the person is thinking about killing themselves.

What is the 'Care' step of ACE?

Listen, show understanding, and remove means of self-harm.

What is the 'Escort' step of ACE?

Do not leave the person alone; get professional help.

Who has the authority to direct a military member to mental health services?

A commander.

What AFI addresses mental health confidentiality?

AFI 44-109.

What is defined as confidential communication in a mental health context?

Communication intended to remain private between patient and provider.

What does TSP or TSR stand for in the context of traumatic incidents?

Traumatic Stress Response services.

What should leaders do immediately following a critical incident?

Provide support, information, and help meet needs.

What are common reactions to sudden death?

Anger, guilt, sleep difficulty, anxiety, depression, or numbness.

What is the role of leadership after a suicide occurs?

Support grieving members and coordinate helping resources.

What is the bottom line regarding suicide prevention for Defenders?

Every Defender should actively participate in prevention.

What is a crisis state?

When normal coping mechanisms fail and emotions overwhelm rational thinking.

Why must responders understand suicide methods?

To identify risk and disrupt suicide plans.

What is 'suicide by cop'?

Provoking law enforcement into using deadly force.

What is an indicator that may suggest a situation is 'suicide by cop'?

Demanding officers kill them.

What is an example of a 'suicide by cop' warning sign?

Setting a deadline for police to kill them.

Why is a recent significant loss considered a concern?

It may increase suicide risk.

What may the act of giving away possessions indicate?

Possible suicidal intent.

What does expressing hopelessness indicate?

Elevated suicide risk.

What is the purpose of negotiation during a suicide intervention?

To return the person to normal functioning and reduce emotional intensity.

What should negotiators avoid during an intervention?

Offering guaranteed solutions.

What should negotiators encourage the subject to discuss?

Discussion of impacts on family and friends.

What specific training should Defenders receive for handling suicidal subjects?

De-escalation tactics and crisis response training.