Chandler calls on leaders to open up about their own combat stress

Chandler calls on leaders to open up about their own combat stress
By JOYCE TSAI
Stars and Stripes
Published: September 26, 2012

Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond F. Chandler III talks with some of the soldiers attending the Non-Commissioned Officers Academy on issues concerning today's Army at Grafenwoehr, Germany on March 6, 2012.

WASHINGTON — One of the Army’s main weapons in combating suicide is the recognition that everyone, no matter their rank, can be at risk, said Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond F. Chandler III.

Chandler said he hoped that a full day of mandatory suicide prevention training during Thursday’s “stand down” would drive home that message to troops and their families.

The Army will offer seminars on identifying the warning signs of suicide as well as resources on where to find help. But Chandler said Wednesday that one of his goals is to encourage senior leaders to share their stories of struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury and suicidal thoughts.

He hopes that commanders can “lead by example,” he said.

“It is a source of strength to ask for help,” Chandler said. “And we are all about being strong in the Army.”
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