Experts Answer Questions on Post-Deployment Health Resources via Facebook
By Sarah Heynen, DCoE Strategic Communications
Most service members experience normal reactions to the stressors of war. These are adaptive behaviors, which generally decrease, even cease, when service members return home. However, when these reactions interfere with a person’s ability to return to “the way things were,” it is appropriate to seek psychological health care. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury (DCoE) and Military Pathways are joining forces to host an online event on Facebook 3-4 p.m. (EDT) May 30, 2012 to answer questions and provide resources on common post-deployment psychological health challenges – and information on where to get help.
To get involved visit the event page and click “join.” Log on at 3 p.m. (EDT) May 30 and write your question directly on the event page wall. Questions will be answered as they are submitted. If you will not be available to ask your question during the live event, ask early! All questions will be answered during or after the live event.
This online opportunity allows for service members, veterans, military families and providers to ask questions regardless of location or time of day. Leading military organizations that specialize in mental health will be ready to answer questions and provide valuable resources to address common psychological health challenges that arise upon reintegration including but not limited to depression, anxiety, substance misuse, etc.
Worried about yourself or loved one who recently returned? Military Pathways offers free anonymous assessments online. The DCoE Outreach Center is also available 24/7 to answer your questions via phone at 866-966-1020, email at resources@dcoeoutreach.org or online chat at www.dcoe.health.mil/247help.