Coast Guard Takes Steps to Improve Service Members' Access to Mental Health Screenings

The Coast Guard unveiled new measures last week to improve service members' access to mental health screening and treatment, requiring supervisors and commanders to refer personnel who request an evaluation as soon as it is practical.

In a Coast Guard-wide message Friday, Rear Adm. Dana Thomas, assistant commandant for health, safety and work-life, said that the service already provides informal support in most situations but adoption of guidance set forth in the Brandon Act, approved as part of the fiscal 2022 defense policy law, will formalize the approach.

"Each of us must remain willing and able to do all that is required to save another's life," Thomas wrote in the message, ALCOAST 124/24.