COMDTINST 1734.1
FEB 28, 1997
5.
DISCUSSION. (Con't)
c.
Studies reveal that nearly 80 percent of those who attempt or commit suicide give some
warning or clue of their intentions and most suicides contemplate their act for weeks in
advance. We can prevent some suicides by involvement and action.
6.
POLICY. Coast Guard commanders and commanding officers shall support aggressive,
conscientious suicide prevention programs that emphasize command concern, leadership
chaplains, staff officers, medical officers and civilian sources are important resources, but
suicide prevention initiatives should originate with the commanding officer and involve all
leadership levels within the local chain of command. To encourage coordinated efforts,
schedule local area suicide prevention meetings at least annually to discuss lessons learned
from training efforts or actual incidents.
7.
KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES.
a.
The Work-Life Staff's Employee Assistance Program Coordinator (EAPC) is the
responsible individual for suicide prevention program efforts. EAPCs are civil service
professionals who represent various human service disciplines, each bringing unique
perspectives to the Coast Guard. EAPCs assist by referring members to resources on
specific identified programs, including the Employee Assistance Program (counseling
program), Critical Incident Stress Management, Financial Management Counseling,
Workplace Violence and Threatening Behavior, Victim Witness Assistance Program,
and Rape and Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention.
b.
Commandant (G-WPW) shall:
(1)
In partnership with the chaplain and Chief Medical Officer of the Coast Guard,
promulgate policy and guidance about the suicide prevention program;
(2)
Represent the Coast Guard at Federal, Department of Defense and national
groups;
(3)
Establish training requirements and provide written educational materials service-
wide on suicide prevention.
(4)
Provide direct technical guidance to Work-Life Staffs on suicide awareness and
prevention;
2