Commanders

• Provide subject matter expertise on behavioral health matters and procedures (i.e., Command Directed Behavior Health Evaluations (CDBHE), profiles).
• Offer consultation, upon request, or following Command Critical Incident Response (CCIR).
• Arrange, and provide postvention, and provider, support for units after the loss of a Soldier.
• Make available tools for Commanders to assist in their decision-making (see OPORD 20-015 for helpful flowcharts)
• Work in partnership with Army organizations and working groups to protect the Force.

Soldiers & Families

• Offer clinical assessment and referral for BH services with follow-up addressing comprehensive areas (mental health, employment, housing, finances, etc.).
• Provide Case Management and profile management for behavioral health CCIRs.
• Conduct outreach following Pre, Post, or Periodic Health Assessment which may indicate possible mental health or behavioral health needs.
  • Referral sources can be for soldiers and their families.
• Review medical records and serve as a liaison for civilian providers and Army policy requirements.
• Advocate for care coordination and continuity.
• Facilitate communicate with Commands on the behavioral health status of Soldiers while preserving confidentiality.

​

​

COVID-19 continues to impact each of us in many ways. It is important during stressful times such as these to remember our core Army values, stay connected with our Army family, and utilize strategies and resources to help us through these difficult times. Make sure that you are safe, and following the guidelines recommended by CDC (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov) and your Army leadership to keep you healthy, along with maintaining the health of everyone in your community.

If you or someone you care about is struggling at this time due to the loss of a family member, loss of a job, or experiencing severe financial concerns, there is help. Please see the strategies below that can help.

1. Reduce your overall level of stress through healthy coping strategies. Although we are fighting a pandemic, catastrophic thinking does not help with problem-solving. Stay focused on things you can control like staying connected with your friends, family, and Army unit through virtual means. Engage in exercise and maintain healthy sleeping habits. Avoid too much caffeine or alcohol. Talk with a counselor or chaplain. If you become overwhelmed and are having thoughts of suicide, call the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 (TALK).  
2. Learn about resources and supports that help you or your family. If there are concerns about work and financial stress, contact your state Health and Human Services (https://www.hhs.gov/) office for programs and benefits available to you or your family. Talk with your Family Programs Coordinator (https://www.usar.army.mil/ARFP/) about programs and resources available to Army Reserve Soldiers and their family. If you need help finding a counselor near your home, contact the Army Reserve Psychological Health Program (https://www.usar.army.mil/BehavioralHealth/).
3. Focus on short-term goals for getting through this pandemic. If you lose a loved one, or if you lose your job, these are experiences that we do not control. It is also normal to grieve after a loss. It may be difficult to get closure during the pandemic, and some of our grief may continue. That is normal, and it is okay. You are part of the Army family, and we are here to support you through this process as we continue serve the United States of America.   

We are the most resilient and ready Army Reserve in our nation’s history. Our current mission is to fight and defeat the virus. It is a team effort, and if you or one of your battle buddies needs help during this time, follow these steps, get help if needed, and continue the fight.

COVID-19 Resources

• U.S. Army Reserve COVID-19 website: usar.army.mil/COVID19/
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Department of Heath and Human Services
• Coronavirus.gov
• Government Response to Coronavirus

Army Reserve Family Programs

If you or one of your family members needs help with other resources such as child and youth services and financial resources, please contact a Family Programs Coordinator for assistance. Follow their website to find the contact information to your nearest Coordinator. | Army Reserve Family Programs »

COVID Coach App

The COVID Coach app from the Department of Veterans Affairs was created to support self-care and overall mental health during the coronavirus pandemic. Features include: education about coping during the pandemic; tools for self-care and to improve emotional well-being; trackers to check your mood and measure your growth toward personal goals; and graphs to visualize progress over time | COVID Coach »

Taking Care of Your Behavioral Health

We're all trying to manage the effects of COVID-19, and it's natural that this may cause a lot of stress. If you're wondering if you or someone you know are showing signs of stress, or want some strategies to cope with stress, please review this document from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration for an overview of options and strategies. (.pdf)