Washington, DC- The following statement was issued by Director Linda M. Springer of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management.

"The Secretary of Defense today announced the implementation for all DoD components of a revision to Standard Form (SF) 86, Questionnaire for National Security Positions, which the U.S. Office of Personnel Management requires for all background security investigations. The revised Question 21 (see text below) will also apply government-wide to all persons completing SF86.

As the agency with the statutory authority to conduct background investigations for the Federal government - including responsibility for the background investigation questionnaire, OPM takes its responsibility to ensure the safety of the Federal workforce very seriously. Our background investigation process has always recognized that our men and women in the armed forces must not be discouraged from seeking mental health counseling when appropriate."

Mental health counseling in and of itself is not a reason to revoke or deny a clearance.

In the last 7 years, have you consulted with a health care professional regarding an emotional or mental health condition or were you hospitalized for such a condition?

Answer "No" if the counseling was for any of the following reasons and was not court-ordered:

- strictly marital, family or grief not related to violence by you; or

- strictly related to adjustments from service in a military combat environment.

If you answered "Yes," indicate who conducted the treatment and/or counseling, provide the following information, and sign the Authorization for Release of Medical Information Pursuant to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

Our mission is to ensure the Federal Government has an effective civilian workforce. OPM supports U.S. agencies with personnel services and policy leadership including staffing tools, guidance on labor-management relations and programs to improve work force performance.