Mental health care is an integral part of overall health and well-being. The Air and Space Force is taking a game-changing initiative to improve mental health first encounters for both members and providers. This initiative will be presented to decision-makers at all levels in the Air and Space Force, so it is crucial that the voices of those who have sought or attempted to seek mental health care, as well as those who are providers or have been on a Command team in the Air or Space Force, be heard.
Understanding how members experience seeking mental health care cannot be overstated. To ensure successful outcomes when members strive for care, the barriers they face when accessing services must be understood. These barriers may include the stigma associated with seeking care, lack of resources, difficulty understanding systems of care, or provider concerns regarding their roles in providing such care. It is also necessary to know how providers perceive their roles in providing these services so that effective strategies can be developed to ensure successful outcomes for members seeking mental health services.
Military culture has long been characterized by a sense of toughness that has created an environment in which physical injuries are more readily accepted than psychological injuries
In addition, the impact of military culture on access to mental health services should be examined. Military culture has long been characterized by a sense of toughness that has created an environment in which physical injuries are more readily accepted than psychological injuries. This environment has led many service members to overlook the signs of stress-related illnesses. It has made it difficult for those struggling with psychological issues to seek help without fear of judgment from peers or superiors. By exploring how military culture impacts access to mental health services, better strategies can be developed for helping service members access needed support.
The Air and Space Force’s initiative on improving first encounters with mental health care is essential to improving access to quality mental healthcare for all members, past and present, spouses, and DAF civilians. Understanding the experiences of those who have sought help and those who provide such help is essential in creating effective strategies for improving these first encounters with care providers. Additionally, we must examine how military culture affects access to mental health services so that better methods can be implemented within organizations and service members feel comfortable reaching out for help when needed without fear of judgment from peers or superiors. Ultimately this effort will lead not only to improved healthcare outcomes but also to improved quality of life among our service personnel community!
Please share with the links below WHETHER OR NOT you personally qualify if you have an Air Force network! Surveys are COMPLETELY anonymous.
For the USER/SEEKER of mental health services:
Mental Health Providers:
Command Teams:
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