Most people avoid the uncomfortable moment. "Make It Weird" is our directive to pick up the phone, ask the question you're afraid to ask, and stay on the line long enough to hear the real answer.
We deliver suicide prevention training to military commands, veteran groups, Gold Star Families, and civilian workforces — not as cold clinical theory, but as permission.
You do not need a medical license to notice that a friend or squadmate has gone silent, withdrawn, or changed their daily routine. You don't need a polished script; you just need the willingness to lean into an awkward conversation and remain present.
Rooted in Melissa's certified credentials in Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), Counseling on Access to Lethal Means (CALM), and Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), this curriculum strips away corporate fluff and gives people practical, plain-language tools that save lives.
"Make it weird. Pick up the phone. Ask the uncomfortable question. Stay on the line long enough to hear the real answer." — Melissa Hanks Ketchel, Founder & Instructor
Curriculum synthesized from ASIST, CALM (Counseling on Access to Lethal Means), and over 20 years of real-world peer crisis intervention inside combat veteran networks.
Identifying subtle behavioral tells: withdrawal from group chats, sudden isolation, uncharacteristic quietness, or giving away possessions.
Breaking the silence immediately. Showing up on the porch, dialing the phone, or sending the text that forces real two-way contact.
Overcoming the instinct to dance around the issue. Asking directly: "Are you thinking about suicide?" and staying on the line to hear the answer.
Counseling on immediate means, removing lethal access, and remaining physically or verbally connected until warm handoff to professional support.
Squad and platoon-level peer training focused on looking out for the brother or sister to your left and right when operational tempo breaks down.
Reunion workshops and unit associations keeping combat veterans connected and vigilant during difficult anniversaries and transitions.
Plain-language, stigma-shattering keynote talks that equip corporate teams, educators, and community leaders with everyday intervention skills.
Melissa travels nationwide to deliver keynote presentations and interactive workshops for units, conferences, and organizations. Complete the form below to request dates and details.