How Do Chaplains in the United States Army Work to Assist in Stemming the Tide of Suicide Cases?

The Chaplain Corps in the Army has served through all the major wars that the United States has fought. Their purpose has been to give balance to the command and at the same time ensure that the morale of the Soldier, his family and unit are spiritually and emotionally well. The current wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, with the other prevailing social and economic conditions in the society have contributed to increased stress and subsequent depression among Soldiers. This spiral has led to an unprecedented amount of suicide cases. The Army has implemented a number of prevention programs aimed at saving lives and reducing the impact of self--harming behaviors. The chaplain remains the primary unhindered referral source to deal with these issues, and they work with community health professionals and social workers to halt this situation. This paper examines how they work, and makes a determination as to what activities can be further enhanced to improve the work of chaplains in suicide prevention.