Maintaining the mind Published July 15, 2009 By Airman 1st Class Marissa Tucker 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- There is a stigma in the armed forces that leads people to believe the mental health office is their enemy. The reality is a visit to the office can save one's career or even their life. "The mental health office is here strictly for help," said Leana Torres, clinical social worker at the 4th Medical Operations Squadron. "We want to help Airmen and their families with any issues they are struggling with such as life, career and family." The three sections in the mental health clinic: family advocacy, the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment program and mental health, provides servicemembers and their dependents an outlet to relieve stresses caused by everyday life, Ms. Torres said. "A lot of times, people think they are the only ones having a certain issue," she said. "In reality, many people have similar issues, some that are common when dealing with servicemembers." Speaking with certified mental health professionals can help Airmen figure out why they are having certain issues and what they can do to work through it. Seeing a counselor does not mean an Airman is unfit for the Air Force. Reaching out for help can stop a small issue from escalating, Ms. Torres said. "As Airmen, it can be scary to go out and seek help," said Airman 1st Class Brittany Keplar, a mental health technician. "People don't want others to think they are crazy," she said. "No one ever has to know you are here." Airmen may also bring their families to counseling. Under the family advocacy program, Airmen and their families can work through their issues with certified a psychologist and psychiatrist free of charge. "Cost for family counseling can reach thousands of dollars, depending on the severity of the case," Ms. Torres said. "We offer this service because we understand military families face different challenges than other families, such as deployments or temporary duties." At the clinic, there is a counselor who specializes in deployment issues. The Global War on Terror program is staffed by active duty servicemembers and a psychologist experienced with handling matters specifically related to deployments. Many Airmen shy away from mental health because they fear lack of confidentiality, Ms. Torres said. Issues such as trouble adjusting to military life or anxiety will not be reported to the patient's chain of command. However, a threat to harm someone, Uniform Code of Military Justice Violations, admissions of domestic violence and child abuse, and threats of suicide must be reported to their first sergeant. The clinic is also available to help Airmen with alcohol and drug problems. Although drug use is not compatible with military service, if an Airman comes to the mental health clinic and admits they have a substance abuse problem, they will be given medical attention and rehabilitation. The mental health office holds a weekly stress and anger management class at Family Place 1 in base housing. Every Friday at 8:30 a.m., counselors are available for any Airmen needing to talk to someone. The class is very informal and un-documented, Ms. Torres said. For people who do not feel comfortable with the mental health office, the counselors recommend speaking to a chaplain or someone they can confide in. "Even if you can't talk to us, go to someone," Ms. Torres said. "Without help, a small problem can escalate to something much larger." Any 4th Fighter Wing Airmen or families wanting to make an appointment at the mental health office can call (919) 722-1883.