Walter Reed National Military Medical Center’s Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) hosts Rock Painting and Stories of Hope Event for Suicide Prevention Month
September is Suicide Prevention Month, and the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center is marking the occasion by organizing a multi-day event called the Rock Painting and Stories of Hope event. This event aims to bring together patients, staff, and their families to raise awareness about suicide prevention through the act of painting rocks and writing messages of hope.
Suicide Prevention Month is observed annually in September, and this year, the DBH team wanted to ensure that people had opportunities to engage in meaningful events throughout the month. The Rock Painting and Stories of Hope event was chosen because it requires minimal time and supplies, making it accessible to everyone.
Rock painting and writing stories have historically been used to inspire hope, promote kindness, and encourage perseverance during difficult times. U.S. Army Capt. Melissa Marcelli-Flint, the event organizer and Counseling and Psychological Services Social Work Fellow, explains that participating in these activities can provide relief and healing for individuals, allowing them to positively influence others based on their personal experiences.
Building interpersonal connections and relationships is crucial for suicide prevention. Marcelli-Flint believes that the rock painting and stories of hope activity foster a sense of community, as it enables individuals to express their personal creativity and connect with others who may be going through similar experiences. The event aims to empower participants and create a supportive environment where they can share their stories and find connections.
The theme for this year’s Suicide Prevention Month is “You Are the Light in Somebody’s Life” in the U.S. Army, which aligns with the Department of Defense’s theme “Connect to Protect: Support is within Reach.” The DBH team wanted to reflect these themes in their events throughout the month, allowing the community to connect with themselves and others.
On September 15, there will be a Rock Placement ceremony where participants can place their painted rocks in a designated area. This ceremony symbolizes the power of joining voices and sharing messages of hope, reminding everyone that there is help available and healing is possible.
In addition to the Rock Painting and Stories of Hope event, there are several other events taking place during Suicide Prevention Month at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. These include a Resource Fair and a Virtual Poster Contest. The DBH team encourages everyone to participate and continue spreading the message of suicide prevention beyond September.
If anyone is struggling or knows someone who needs help, the Veterans Crisis Line can be reached at 988 by pressing one, or individuals can text 838255. There are also various mental health resources available, such as the Psychological Health Center of Excellence, TRICARE Mental Health Services, CDC Mental Health Page, and VA Suicide Prevention.
Walter Reed’s Department of Behavioral Health provides year-round support for patients and their families, ensuring ongoing awareness about suicide prevention and offering support to those in need.
References:
– Mental Health Resources: https://health.mil/News/In-the-Spotlight/Mental-Health-is-Health
– Psychological Health Center of Excellence: https://health.mil/Military-Health-Topics/Centers-of-Excellence/Psychological-Health-Center-of-Excellence
– TRICARE Mental Health Services: https://www.tricare.mil/mentalhealth
– CDC Mental Health Page: https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/index.htm
– Suicide Prevention: https://health.mil/Military-Health-Topics/Total-Force-Fitness/Psychological-Fitness/Suicide-Prevention
– 988 Information: https://health.mil/News/In-the-Spotlight/988
– Military and Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help/military-crisis-line
– VA Suicide Prevention: https://www.va.gov/health-care/health-needs-conditions/mental-health/suicide-prevention/