The unfolding crisis in Afghanistan is heartbreaking to watch, but it may be especially difficult for military men and women. The Chapel at McDill AFB provides on-site counseling services for active duty, reserve and retired military. The number for mental health services is 813-827-9170. If one would prefer to meet with a Chaplain, the Chapel number is 813-828-3621 *3.
The Pentagon memo included the following descriptions of mental health resources available for veterans and U.S. service members:
- The Real Warriors Campaign aims to break down the stigma associated with mental health care and encourages service members to reach out for help when they need it. Find articles with support resources, video profiles with service member and veteran stories, and materials to download or order at www.health.mil/RealWarriors.
- The Psychological Health Resource Center is available 24/7 for service members, veterans, and family members with questions about psychological health topics. Trained mental health consultants can help callers access mental health care and community support resources in their local area. www.health.mil/PHRC or call 866-966-1020 for assistance.
- The inTransition Program is a free confidential program that provides specialized coaching and assistance for service members, National Guard members, reservists, veterans, and retirees who need access to mental health care when relocating to another assignment, returning from deployment, transitioning between active duty and reserve component, preparing to leave military service, or any other time they need a new mental health provider, or need a provider for the first time. www.health.mil/inTransition or call 800-424-7877.
- The Military Crisis Line, text-messaging service, and online chat provide free VA support for all Service members, including members of the National Guard and Reserve, and all Veterans, even if they are not registered with VA or enrolled in VA health care. Call: 1-800-273-8255 and press 1. Text: 838255 Chat: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help/chat
- Military Health System Web Pages. There are two sources of information on the Military Health System websites: www.health.mil/mentalhealth and www.tricare.mil/mentalhealth