Command Referral to Behavioral health what to expect at first appointment and after?

2018-10-08T18:40:41-04:00

I was hospitalized voluntarily with suicidal ideations for a week and diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder/ Anxiety / PTSD. My Command is referring me to behavioral health. This experience has been extremely embarrassing but I am wanting to know what to expect at my appointment with the psychiatrist next week and after to prepare my family. Can I request a medboard if I feel that my symptoms are being aggravated by military service?

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Oct 8 at 2018 6:52 PM

2018-10-08T18:52:36-04:00

I know how you feel about a career at risk and I sympathize with you. I believe the Hospital will determine what path you will take. If you can't do your job, then the best COA is to get out and let the VA take care of you. Keep me informed as I can shed some light on the MEDBOARD process. Good luck, don't freak out, and focus on your treatment.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 8 at 2018 7:04 PM

2018-10-08T19:04:17-04:00

I had a Soldier that my Commander and I had to Command Refer to BH. He went to his appointments. What was said between them was between them. What eventually happened was he stated that he wanted to stay in so he had to face a PEB. He was found unfit for continual service and was discharged. Had another Soldier....same situation (kinda). He stated to the Doctors and Command that he didn't want to stay in anymore. This and his Doctor stating his medications alone would bar him from continued service, was medically discharged. When you go to your appointment, hold nothing back. Speak with the Doctor to see if you can request a MEB/PEB. Chances are, you may end up getting medically discharged. No matter the outcome, I wish you good luck and to keep seeking help.

Response by MAJ Rene De La Rosa made Oct 8 at 2018 8:42 PM

2018-10-08T20:42:57-04:00

The psychiatrist will do an examination of all possible diagnoses. S/he may want to use medications or psychotherapy. Either way, utilize this so you can deal with your situation. And recall that this can be just as bad as a physical injury.

Response by SSG Warren Swan made Oct 9 at 2018 1:46 AM

2018-10-09T01:46:53-04:00

Staff first off drop being embarrassed. You’re only hurting yourself there. If you’re having those thoughts they did right by you and hopefully want to see you back at 100% running at full steam. Once you get there, be honest. ITS HARD!! Just do it. It’ll set the tone for the future. LISTEN!!! You’re used to being in charge. Now they’re in charge. Let them do their jobs. RELAX!! Staff you will find pain like you’ve never seen before in there. Let it go. Open up. Those with you on there will be there and help you as you help them. ACT! You’re gonna be faced with decisions that you’ll have input on, and some you won’t. Don’t be afraid to say it’s time. Don’t be ‘full Hooah’ and lie to yourself and say you have more in the tank. You’ll be hurting the team, and I mean more than the Army.
You’ll discuss your issues, they will take notes, and they could put you on meds. You could be assigned a battle who goes everywhere with you for a minute during duty hours. Don’t let it get to ya. If you have a family INCUDE THEM!! It’s hard to open up to them and show you’re ‘weak’. Staff you’re not weak at all, and showing them what haunts you can go a long ways towards healing.
I could be here all day with this. Of what is shown isn’t enough PM me. I got you. I’m sure with as many RP’ers who’ve gone through this, they do too.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Oct 9 at 2018 7:34 AM

2018-10-09T07:34:36-04:00

No offense but it sounds like we are diagnosing (unaware of your issues). Your first visit will determine the initial course of treatment. If you wish to remain on duty you have to be honest and work with the medical professionals on a course of treatment. If you have not had any extensive counseling with medical professionals that may be a course and it may be all that you need. In either case take this time to concern yourself with your health and not whether you stay or go. We ( the country) owes you the best care possible. Please don’t jump too quickly. Listen, participate and be involved in your fate. Thank you for your service.

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Oct 9 at 2018 10:13 AM

2018-10-09T10:13:43-04:00

SSG Private RallyPoint Member do not feel embarrassed. It took courage to do the right thing and seek help. That's what matters most for you and for your family. Keep us posted and reach out to anyone here on RP if we can be helpful. Best wishes to you.

Response by LT Brad McInnis made Oct 9 at 2018 11:31 PM

2018-10-09T23:31:25-04:00

I would start by saying don't feel embarrassed. Stand in a room with a bunch of service members and vets, I will bet you many have thoughts. The fact you voluntarily submitted yourself should bode well. The question that you and the therapist need to determine is if military service is making things worse, or if it something that treatment can teach you to cope. Be upfront and honest with them, they are actually there to help. I had a sailor take a weapon out of the armory with suicidal ideations, we got him into therapy, and he retired 14 years later! Be honest, get the treatment, and let the system work. I used to think the system automatically booted people, but after seeing it up close with my sailor, they are actually going to do the best for you and the service. Keep charging, keep your head up, and fight strong buddy!