In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at curbing the distressing rates of suicide within its ranks, the U.S. Army is deploying virtual reality technology to provide soldiers with immersive training experiences in suicide prevention. The innovative program transports participants into lifelike scenarios where they must navigate the complexities of mental health crises among their peers, with the ultimate goal of saving lives.
A recent interview with Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael Weimer underscored the emotional intensity and realism of the virtual reality (VR) training, which has already been integrated into programs addressing sexual misconduct prevention. Weimer expressed the significant impact of the training, stating, “It makes you reflect. What were the missed opportunities I’ve had in my career?”
The military’s struggle to address service members’ suicides and incidents of sexual assault and harassment has been longstanding. The latest Pentagon figures show a concerning increase in soldier suicides, with 160 deaths reported in fiscal 2023, up from the previous year. Although a sexual assault report indicated a decrease in occurrences, these issues remain at the forefront of the military’s challenges.
Special Operations Command has specifically requested Weimer to serve as the coach for its new suicide prevention training. The scenarios, catered to the stresses experienced within the special operations community, transport soldiers into a virtual environment depicting a fellow soldier in crisis.
Captain Josh Ecker from the 1st Special Forces Group described his experience with the VR training as surprising in its realism, stating, “I was immediately surprised because I saw what looked like an actual service member… He looked like someone I would find down the hall in my building.”
The training involves making difficult decisions under pressure, providing three response options for the participant to choose from and verbalize. The immersive nature of the experience aims to foster the confidence needed to intervene effectively in real-world situations.
Moth+Flame, the company behind the VR training, has worked closely with the Army to incorporate guidance within the scenarios based on participants’ responses. The 82nd Airborne Division has already incorporated VR scenarios for sexual harassment and assault prevention, and has expanded to include suicide prevention.
Elsewhere, Naval Base San Diego has launched a pilot VR program for suicide prevention training. This initiative trains servicemembers on managing mental health conversations, supplementing traditional lecture-style courses that can lack direct application. The VR technology enables servicemembers to engage in virtual, one-on-one interventions with individuals simulated to be contemplating suicide.
The military’s commitment to this technology illustrates the importance of preparing servicemembers for the gravity of these crises. Through realistic simulations, they gain the conversational tools needed to potentially steer peers away from tragic decisions.
In a broader sense, the Army’s holistic health and fitness system (H2F), aimed at enhancing Soldiers’ readiness by addressing their physical and mental well-being, aligns with the goals of the VR program. Governance of this system is critical, with noncommissioned officers (NCOs) finding innovative ways to incorporate its principles regardless of resource constraints. The H2F system underscores the importance of proactive health measures, suggesting that prioritization of H2F resources for units with immediate needs is necessary for continued benefit realization.
The integration of VR training into military programs represents a vital step toward addressing the urgent issue of suicide within the armed forces. By blending technology with empathy and practical application, the Army hopes to empower its members to act decisively and compassionately when confronted with a comrade in crisis.
Relevant articles:
– Army embraces virtual reality training, including top enlisted soldier coaching troops on suicide prevention, Stars and Stripes
– Military Using VR To Prevent Suicides, Support Our Troops.org
– Military uses training and new virtual reality tool to prevent suicides, Texas Standard
– Needs-Based Approach to Holistic Health and Fitness, Army University Press (.mil