Negative Barriers to Care
Confidentiality: Confidentiality & Fear of Being Labeled. The single most pervasive concern of our USASOC warriors is that their BH information will not remain confidential and will result in stigmatization. More...
Self Perceptions: Seeking BH treatment is perceived to contradict the cultural norm of self-reliance and may contribute to the stigma that those seeking BH treatment are perceived as “dependent.” More...
Command Climate: Senior Leaders (SL’s) can contribute directly or indirectly to BH stigma. Based on feedback from the tribes, this is certainly the exception, as USASOC leaders are reportedly providing a supportive environment for their Soldiers seeking BH care. More...
Seeking Treatment for Combat Related Stress
`There will be no retribution or blowback from seeking treatment
- Seeking early treatment has the potential to stop the downward spiral of bad decisions, which can arise from the stresses of military life.
- Waiting until after the event has occurred can have a negative impact not only on you but on your family and unit.
Seeking Behavioral Health treatment is the right thing to do
- It is a sign of strength and fortitude, not a sign of weakness.
- It is easier to fall back on what is comfortable to keep trying to do it yourself.
- It is more challenging to reach out to others for support.
- You get here because you sought challenges and growth
SOF Truth: "Humans are more important than hardware."
- Maintain your mental and spiritual fitness as you would your physical fitness.
- Just like an ankle sprain, taking care of it early when it's small, will prevent severe problems at work and home down the road.