A Battle Buddy is not only intended for company, but also for the reduction of suicide; since each watches his partner's actions, a Battle Buddy can save their fellow soldier's life by noticing negative thoughts and feelings and intervening to provide help.

Tell your doctor immediately if you or your family/caregiver notice any unusual/sudden changes in your mood, thoughts, or behavior including signs of depression, suicidal thoughts/attempts, thoughts about harming yourself.

You learn to notice irrational thoughts about yourself.

The book also suggests that we are invisible 'avatars' who experience the world by noticing sensations and thoughts.

You can learn to notice negative thoughts and then counter them with positive, helpful thoughts.