What do you feel helped shape your opinion/beliefs on those seeking help for mental health issues while serving in the U.S Military?

2019-11-05T14:32:49-05:00

Response by Lt Col Charlie Brown made Nov 5 at 2019 2:36 PM

2019-11-05T14:36:59-05:00

I have seen both military and family members suffer because they fear going to mental health. I escorted people there and I did my best to assure them that there would not be any negative reprocussions as a result and if there was any chance of that we would discuss that before any action was taken. I have also sent really resisitant troops to the chaplain for counseling.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Nov 5 at 2019 2:50 PM

2019-11-05T14:50:01-05:00

I have more empathy and compassion for mental conditions.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Nov 5 at 2019 3:22 PM

2019-11-05T15:22:41-05:00

I have compassion for those that suffer from PTSD, and other problems of the mind, since I suffer from PTSD and TBI's also

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 5 at 2019 3:33 PM

2019-11-05T15:33:04-05:00

Spend some time around a VA Medical Center Mental Health Clinic, and observe. It's an eye-opener.

Response by CPL Brendan Hayes made Nov 5 at 2019 3:38 PM

2019-11-05T15:38:14-05:00

As part of my civilian education coming to realize that mental health issues are on par with physical health issues. You wouldn't tell someone with a broken leg to "Just get over it." Or, you wouldn't tell someone born with a vision impairment, "Have you ever tried not being blind?" Once I came to terms with the fact that mental health concerns are just as valid and debilitating as physical health concerns, I was all for providing as much help as possible.

Response by MSgt Michael Smith made Nov 6 at 2019 8:19 AM

2019-11-06T08:19:50-05:00

I really hate to be a negative person, but facts are facts. SECURITY CLEARANCE. Without it, your career in the military (or the Government) is over. Security Clearance is the first thing you lose when you seek help for mental health. It's a nasty little secret. While the military might talk nice and tell everyone that there are no negative consequences for seeking help, that security clearance, especially when its a TS or higher, is ALWAYS at risk when you are considered mentally vulnerable. There is no kind of guarantee or safety net for keeping your clearance. You might get all kinds of promises from leadership about no impacts on your job, but seeking help absolutely can lead to losing your clearance. I've personally witnessed it multiple times.