Landscape of Training for Non-Commissioned Officers in Difficult Conversations with Soldiers in Their Commands

Faced with increasing suicide rates in the U.S. Army, efforts are underway to bolster noncommissioned officer (NCO) training as suicide prevention gatekeepers and also to support upstream prevention efforts more generally. This qualitative study examined the literature on best practices for non-clinical suicide prevention and training in the skills necessary to have difficult conversations to identify and address suicide risk factors (e.g. financial and relationship issues, mental health and substance use). We reviewed the empirical literature and conducted structured interviews with key Army leaders, trainers, and NCOs about the current Army training efforts. Interviews revealed multiple enhancements to training being made that are in line with best practices, but some gaps were noted as well. Based on our findings, we recommend that the Army increase the availability of training in how to have difficult conversations (especially “soft skills”), enhance support for skills-building after trainings occur through coaching, mentoring, and performance feedback, clarify that this type of soldier support is part of the NCO role, and more strongly promote the concept that soldier well-being is key to a ready and resilient force.