Airmen talk mental health

U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 4th Fighter Wing listen to Jordan Burnham, public speaker, give a presentation on mental health and suicide awareness at the base theatre on Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C., Nov. 13, 2012. Burnham spoke about different kinds of mental health disorders such as bi-polar disorder, depression and schizophrenia. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class John Nieves Camacho/Released)

Airmen talk mental health

Jordan Burnham, public speaker, and U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jaclyn Sporcic, 911th Air Refueling Squadron crew chief, talk at the base theatre on Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C., Nov. 13, 2012. After his presentation on mental health, Burnham opened the floor to questions and comments. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class John Nieves Camacho/Released)

Airmen talk mental health

Published Nov. 19, 2012
By Airman 1st Class John Nieves Camacho
4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Airmen from across the 4th Fighter Wing listened to a speaker at the base theater share the story of his suicide attempt and overcoming depression here, Nov. 13.

Jordan Burnham is a public speaker who explores mental health issues and disorders that affect young adults. He tells his story of struggling with depression and hiding his internal battle.

During his senior year of high school, Burnham attempted to take his own life by jumping out of a nine-story high window. His survival propelled him to begin to deal with his depression and learn healthier coping mechanisms.

Due to the increasing number in suicides in the military, Group 5/6 members asked Burnham to come share his story and message on mental health.

While here, Burnham spoke to members of the Seymour Johnson community about different kinds of mental health disorders such as bi-polar disorder, depression and schizophrenia.

"Having Jordan here was a great opportunity," said Staff Sgt. James Ward, 4th Civil Engineer Squadron Airman dormitory leader. "One of the biggest parts of his message was that we need to shed the stigma that surrounds mental health and seek honest help should we need it. And help others when we see them struggling. I hope those who attended the presentations will help themselves and those around them in need."