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Navigating PTSD and Suicide Prevention

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Lesson Plan

Navigating PTSD and Suicide Prevention

understanding ptsd and how ptsd impacts military connected families and increases risk for suicide

This lesson aims to equip caregivers of military personnel with the knowledge and skills to identify PTSD and suicidal behavior, debunk myths, and provide support. Through inquiry-based learning, participants will engage with videos and articles to understand the complexities of PTSD and its impact on military families.

Audience

10 active duty and veteran spouses who are caregivers to active duty and veterans who are at risk for PTSD

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Inquiry-based learning

Materials

Access to a computer with internet connection and a projector or a smartboard for video presentations., Links to videos from the library:, TED Talk: Understanding PTSD's Effects on Brain, Body, and Emotions, What is PTSD?, Common Misconceptions about Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, What to Do When Someone is Considering Suicide, Printed handouts for group discussions (Attachment: Discussion Questions)., Printed handouts for PTSD and suicide prevention resources (Attachment: PTSD and Suicide Prevention Resources)., Worksheets for individual reflection and application (Attachment: PTSD Reflection Worksheet)., Additional worksheets for understanding and supporting loved ones with PTSD (Attachment: PTSD Support Strategies Worksheet)., and Additional worksheets for suicide prevention and crisis management (Attachment: Suicide Prevention and Crisis Management Worksheet).

Step 1

Introduction

5 minutes

  • Begin by introducing the topic of PTSD and its relevance to military families.
  • Explain the objectives of the lesson and the importance of destigmatization and early intervention.

Step 2

Video Presentation: Understanding PTSD

20 minutes

Step 3

Group Discussion

5 minutes

  • Use the handouts to guide a discussion on the effects of PTSD on military families and the increased risk of suicide.
  • Encourage participants to share their thoughts and experiences related to the topic.

Step 4

Individual Reflection (Worksheet Activity)

5 minutes

  • Distribute the PTSD Reflection Worksheet.
  • Allow participants time to reflect on their own experiences and how they can apply the knowledge gained to support their loved ones.

Step 5

Closure

5 minutes

  • Summarize the key takeaways from the lesson.
  • Emphasize the importance of seeking help and supporting loved ones with PTSD.
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Discussion

Discussion Questions

A set of questions to facilitate group discussion on PTSD and suicide prevention after viewing the videos.

How does PTSD affect the brain and emotions, and what are the implications for military families?

Discuss the neurological changes and emotional impacts of PTSD, and how these affect family dynamics.







What are some common misconceptions about PTSD that you have encountered?

Explore misconceptions such as PTSD only affecting veterans, immediate symptom onset, and the false association with mental weakness.







How can we support someone who is considering suicide, and what resources are available?

Discuss strategies for support and list available resources like hotlines and support groups.







In what ways can we destigmatize PTSD and encourage early intervention?

Consider community education, open conversations, and promoting mental health resources.







Why is it important to understand that PTSD is not a sign of mental weakness?

Emphasize that PTSD is a medical condition that can affect anyone, and discuss the importance of empathy and support.







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Reading

PTSD and Suicide Prevention Resources

A handout providing a list of resources for PTSD and suicide prevention, including hotlines, websites, and local support groups.

PTSD and Suicide Prevention Resources

  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) - A 24/7 hotline for anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.
  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 - A free, 24/7 text line for people in crisis.
  • Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1 - A hotline for veterans and their families.
  • PTSD Foundation of America: www.ptsdusa.org - Provides resources and support for combat veterans and their families.
  • National Center for PTSD: www.ptsd.va.gov - Offers information on PTSD and treatment options for veterans.
  • Local Support Groups: Contact information for local support groups that specialize in PTSD and military family support.
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Worksheet

PTSD Reflection Worksheet

A worksheet for participants to reflect on their understanding of PTSD and how they can apply this knowledge in their role as caregivers.

Reflect on the information presented in the TED Talk and other videos. How has your understanding of PTSD changed?








What are some signs of PTSD that you might have noticed in your loved one but did not recognize before?








List any misconceptions about PTSD you may have had and how they have been addressed by the lesson.








How can you apply the strategies discussed in the lesson to support your loved one?








Write down any questions or concerns you have about PTSD and suicide prevention that you would like to explore further.








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Worksheet

PTSD Support Strategies Worksheet

A worksheet to help participants develop strategies for supporting loved ones with PTSD.

Identify three strategies you can use to support a loved one with PTSD.








Describe how you would implement these strategies in your daily life.








Consider any potential challenges you might face and how you could overcome them.








Reflect on how these strategies can help in destigmatizing PTSD within your family and community.








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Worksheet

Suicide Prevention and Crisis Management Worksheet

A worksheet to guide participants in creating a plan for suicide prevention and crisis management.

List the signs of suicidal ideation that you need to be aware of.








Create a step-by-step plan for what to do if you suspect someone is considering suicide.








Identify resources and support systems you can rely on during a crisis.








Reflect on the importance of self-care while managing a crisis and write down self-care strategies you can use.








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