Mental health flight kicks off help-seeking campaign

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Jim Araos
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  With Alaska's long hours of darkness and cold temperatures just around the corner, the 354th Medical Group's mental health flight began its Early Mental Health Help-Seeking Campaign to maintain the mental fitness of the Iceman team.

As of Sept. 15, the mental health flight is officially open to adult dependents 18 years old or older for mental health counseling and Alcohol and Drug Prevention and Treatment program services. 

Through direction from Air Force Medical Operations Agency and Pennsylvania State University, the campaign aims to reduce stigma and help people seek mental health treatment.

"We are trying to convince people to seek treatment when they need it versus waiting until it is too much," said Staff Sgt. Niccolet Cleghorn, 354th Medical Operations Squadron NCO in charge of mental health flight.

The misconception and stigma from command notifications has made Airmen hesitant to seek mental health care. Depending on the severity of the condition, seeking mental health care usually does not affect an Airman's career.

"Unless someone is significantly dangerous to themselves, to others or the mission, the vast majority of people coming in do not have any risk to their career," said Maj. Stephen Stouder, 354th Medical Operations Squadron mental health flight commander.

According to Stouder, It is easier to fix depression in its early stages as opposed to when the condition is severe. The more severe it is, the more impact it has on a family, its well-being and ability to accomplish the mission.

"We want to ensure the problem is found and repaired in order to put them back on the job as quickly as possible," said Stouder. "We are here to help and have a vested interest in protecting our Icemen and their career because they are assets for the nation."

For more information on mental health services, call 377-3071.