Clandestine Support: How Mental Health Services Elevate Airmen's Spirit
In the corners of undisclosed military locations, where demands weigh heavily and loved ones appear distant in the mind’s eye, lies a bastion of hope and resilience: the 379th Expeditionary Medical Squadron. This vital unit, operating in the shadows of the U.S. Central Command area, tirelessly offers mental health services crucial for maintaining airmen’s resilience and mission readiness.
A Cornerstone of Comprehensive Care
As explained by Maj. Candee Berck, mental health serves as a cornerstone within the pillars of Comprehensive Airman Fitness, affecting every element of military effectiveness. The squadron’s Mental Health Office dedicates itself to this mission through licensed mental health professionals adept at teaching effective coping mechanisms for deployment stressors. According to DVIDS, these services are indispensable for enhancing coping strategies and ensuring personnel remain mission-ready.
Diverse Support and Continuous Readiness
“We have licensed therapists available to address a variety of concerns,” Berck emphasized. Through classes on stress management and sleep hygiene, these professionals equip airmen with strategies essential for resilience. Capt. Gia Chewala notes, “Our office welcomes 70 to 80 visitors monthly, ensuring constant availability with a 24⁄7 crisis response team eager to serve those in need.”
Embodying the Spirit of Support
The team’s commitment extends beyond immediate assistance. By offering education on topics ranging from conflict resolution to reintegration, they instill confidence in airmen’s abilities to adapt and thrive. “98% of our visitors return to duty ready for the demands ahead,” Berck adds, a testament to the success of their tailored interventions.
Combating the Stigma
Mindful of the stigma attached to seeking help, the office assures confidentiality and prioritizes the well-being of personnel seeking aid. This dedication fosters a supportive environment where airmen feel empowered to seek help, reinforcing their capacity to serve.
A Lifeline in Constant Motion
Amid high-paced operational demands, the 379th EMDS emerges as a source of guidance and assistance, bridging the emotional gap between deployment and home. Through diligent efforts, they ensure that airmen remain ready to “fly, fight, and win,” transcending the barriers of distance and duty.
In an ever-demanding military landscape, mental health services emerge as a silent guardian, fortifying the heart and spirit of those committed to service.
