SMA: Get Mental Health Help if Needed

SMA: Get Mental Health Help if Needed

Photo by: U.S. Army

The Army’s top enlisted soldier is urging troops not to fear the stigma that too often surrounds mental health treatment and to seek help if they think they need it.

“One of the greatest threats to our force is post-traumatic stress, depression and other behavioral health-related concerns,” Sgt. Maj. of the Army Daniel A. Dailey says in his latest “SMA Minute” video posted online. “This is not something we can change, but it is something we can treat.”

Dailey noted that Army research shows approximately 15 percent of Operation Iraqi Freedom veterans experience post-traumatic stress, while another 10 percent to 15 percent will experience some other kind of behavioral health problem.

He urged “everyone to break the silence and promote dialogue within your formations, at home and in your communities. Take the first step in recovery and overall resiliency. If you think you need help, get it. If you know someone who needs help, reach out.”

Dailey said anonymous screening is available for soldiers, families and government civilians “24 hours a day, seven days a week, and great resources can be found” online at www.militaryonesource.mil and by phone at 800-342-9647.

“Break the silence and help our Army remain the most ready and resilient fighting force in our nation’s history.”