About

Rascal Flatts and The Jason Foundation, Inc. are working together on a new program to prevent suicides in our Army, National Guard, Army Reserve and their respective families. In addition to their roles as Celebrity Ambassadors and participation in public service announcements, public awareness programs and fundraising, Rascal Flatts will promote the newly created B1 Military Project. The purpose of the B1 Military Project is to educate our servicemen/women and their families on recognizing the warning signs of suicidal thoughts and behaviors and how to help an at-risk friend or relative.

The Jason Foundation, Inc. (JFI) is an educational organization dedicated to the awareness and prevention of suicide. JFI believes that awareness and education are the first steps to prevention. Awareness and prevention of suicide is the focus of The Jason Foundation programs. Through these programs, adults and youth learn the warning signs and risk factors that may indicate someone is struggling with suicide thoughts. The programs also provide the tools and resources to help identify and assist those who may be at risk.

To learn more, please visit www.jasonfoundation.com.

Rascal Flatts – Gary LeVox, Jay DeMarcus and Joe Don Rooney – have been involved in may philanthropic and charitable endeavors throughout their career and believe in the gift of giving back.

Close Window
Close Window

How to B1

Be Aware

Be aware and understand the problem of suicide within the Army, National Guard and Army Reserve.

  • In 2010, suicides in the Army, National Guard and Army Reserve increased 24.4%.
  • Suicides in the Army National Guard and Army Reserve in 2010 almost doubled those in 2009.
  • The Army reported 156 active duty deaths by suicide and 145 suicides among guardsmen and reservists.
  • Of the 112 guardsmen lost to suicide, more than 50% had not deployed.
  • Suicide is PREVENTABLE.

By being part of the B1 Project, you can help take some of the "silence" away from the "silent epidemic" of youth suicide by learning about the problem and making a plan to help your friends who may be struggling.

Be Able to Identify

Be able to identify those who may be struggling with suicidal ideation. Learn the warning signs and risk factors:

  • Dramatic mood changes
  • Depression; hopelessness and helplessness
  • Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities
  • Talking or hinting about suicide
  • Rehearsal of suicide acts
  • Withdrawal from family, friends and activities
  • Previous suicide attempts
  • Severe or prolonged stress
  • Significant change in performance
  • Finalizing personal affairs
  • Giving away personal possessions
  • Legal, financial and/or occupational problems
  • Increasing alcohol or drug use
  • Family history of suicide
  • Acting bizarre or unusual (based on your knowledge of the person)
  • Readjustment difficulties following deployment

(NOTE: This is not an all-inclusive list of warning signs and risk factors.)

Be Prepared to Ask and Act paget

The warning signs and risk factors mentioned in Step 2 are not the only signs which a soldier who is struggling may exhibit. If the behavior is out of character for the person as you know them, the behavior at least warrants some questions or conversation as to what is happening with them. Have a plan of action ready in the event you recognize the person may be having suicidal thoughts. Don’t be afraid to get involved. Some resources for help:

  • Soldier's first line leader
  • Chaplain
  • Behavioral Health Professional
  • Emergency Personnel: 911

Be a Part of the Solution

By entering your email address and clicking "I'll B1", you are pledging to be there for your friends. Someone you know may need a friend - B1.

Thank You For Your Pledge -- Pass B1 Along to Others

ShareThis
Next Back