Photo By Pfc. Katie Freitas | Fort Cavazos Suicide Prevention Program Coordinator, Ms. Janny DeJesus shows off her...... read more read more
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BEYOND THE BATTLEFIELD
The People First Center's Unique Approach to Suicide Prevention on Fort Cavazos
Article written by Pfc. Stanislav Mitchell
FORT CAVAZOS, Tx– Amid a bustling auditorium, Soldiers gather for a session unlike any other. They put aside the usual military formality and wear civilian attire. Their interactions are marked by a chorus of banter and laughter rather than rigid protocols.
As the room settles into an attentive silence, it becomes clear that this seminar is not just another routine exercise but a pivotal moment in their development. This shift in approach reflects a broader movement within the military to adopt more dynamic and impactful training methods. At the heart of this transformation is the PFC, which aims to streamline resources to combat harmful behaviors, enhance team cohesion, and develop empathetic and effective leaders. This initiative represents advancing holistic readiness and operational excellence in military training.
Spearheaded by collaborative efforts between the Secretary of the Army, the Honourable Christine E. Wormuth, and Lt. Gen. Sean C. Bernabe, III Armored Corps Commander, Fort Cavazos, the installation’s People’s First Center (PFC) integrates innovative techniques to address Soldiers' mental health.
The PFC’s Suicide Prevention Program employs cutting-edge methods to equip Soldiers with critical skills for addressing mental health crises.
"We provide immersive, experiential vignette-based training that creates a shock and awe effect. This is done through exceptions granted by the Secretary of the Army and provided to the senior installation commander here at Fort Cavazos," said Capt. Avery D. Smith, the commandant of the PFC.
"Companies, batteries, and troops are receiving training at the PFC by first getting instruction and learning how to recognize harmful behaviors. Next, they see our cadre conduct skits showing what those situations look like,” explained Smith. “After these skits, they engage in meaningful dialogue with their peers to talk about experiences and how to navigate those challenges."
The immersive training scenarios aim to help Soldiers effectively understand and address harmful behaviors and visualize and develop the techniques for their daily lives. The effectiveness of this course is further emphasized through the personal stories and reflections of those involved in the program.
Ms. Janny Dejesus, a Suicide Prevention Program coordinator at the PFC, shares her experience with the Soldiers, using her hardships as a testimony to assist them. "I can use the story that I was so ashamed of to help others get to new heights and live the life they want to in the Army."
This concept extends beyond traditional training, incorporating unconventional methods to foster a deeper understanding of mental health care. Part of the approach is providing them with someone to vent to, someone who will listen and empathize with them.
“Just being there to let them express themselves and help them release some of the pressure. To me, that is priceless," said DeJesus.
The PFC’s teaching and listening procedure allows Soldiers to release any emotions they may be holding in, which sets the PFC apart in its training method.
"What makes us different is that we are not sitting here continuously using slides. We are trying to get to the human, and have the human connection be built in the actual class," said Dejesus.
This innovative method used by the PFC moves beyond conventional learning, aiming to create authentic, emotional connections and practical applications of knowledge. Changing perceptions about the role of mental health care is also a crucial aspect of the PFC's mission.
"I think that we are starting to change the perspective on methods of care for suicide prevention. We are starting to show and highlight the fact that there are other approaches," said Dejesus.
Breaking the stigma around mental health is a significant mission for the PFC because they want Soldiers to move past the stigma, be open-minded, and be receptive to this new type of training. This openness is essential for Soldiers to truly learn from the program and incorporate it into their lives. Soldiers in the program aren't always receptive to the training; however, Dejesus welcomes and embraces those challenges.
"I like that many Soldiers are reluctant to come in for training; they come in with a sense that this wastes their time… when they leave, you can see the camaraderie; they come together and experience joy," said Dejesus.
The transformation in each Soldiers’ attitude is also evident in one-on-one sessions. "When they come in, they're sad, have that wall up, and don't necessarily want to share... but then by the time they finish saying what they've been holding inside for so long, you can see that light come back, and you can see that joy," said Dejesus. This change in emotion demonstrates the program's ability to shift the Soldiers' perception coming into the classes, allowing them to experience the program's intent.
The program, spearheaded by the III Armored Corps, has yielded significant progress, evidenced by the PFC's achievements since its inception. This progress is a testament to the effectiveness of the PFC's plan and the potential for further positive change.
"As of today, the People First Center has trained 14,880 Soldiers," said Capt. Smith. "For this fiscal year alone, we've trained 7,270 Soldiers, with 2,145 classes conducted to date."
Through its innovative training methods and dedicated personnel, the People First Center is redefining how the military addresses mental health and suicide prevention. It embodies a commitment to building resilient Soldiers, fostering a supportive environment, and leading by example in an evolving military training and leadership era.
| Date Taken: | 07.24.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 08.06.2024 11:14 |
| Story ID: | 476936 |
| Location: | FORT CAVAZOS, TEXAS, US |
| Web Views: | 8 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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