Mental Health Evaluations
Department of Defense policy seeks to remove the stigma associated with military members seeking and receiving mental health services.
A commander or supervisor will refer a member for an emergency mental health evaluation as soon as practicable when:
A member, by actions or words, intends or is likely to cause serious injury to himself/herself or others;
When the facts and circumstances indicate that the member’s intent to cause such injury is likely; or
When the commander believes that the member may be suffering from a severe mental disorder.
A member may also initiate a voluntary self-referral for mental health care.
Commanders or supervisors may make informal, non-mandatory recommendations for members under their authority to seek care from an mental health professional when circumstances do not require a commander directed evaluation based on safety or mission concerns.
Commanders and supervisors are encouraged to educate members with respect to additional options for assistance, including confidential counseling from family support; Military OneSource resources; consultation from chaplains; and options for obtaining assistance with financial, legal, childcare, housing, or educational issues.
Following the evaluation, the mental health professional will provide timely feedback to the commander or supervisor regarding the member's fitness.
COMMANDER'S ACTION CHECKLIST FOR REFERRAL OF MEMBER FOR NON-EMERGENCY MENTAL HEALTH EVALUATION
Gather information supporting referral
Consult Staff Judge Advocate
If member has prior mental health treatment, request records by written consent of member
Prepare letter to Mental Health Professional (MHP) to confirm basis for referral
If MHP responds favorably, schedule an appointment for the member
Confirm member will be on orders at the time of the appointment
Provide notice of the referral to the member
Obtain written acknowledgment of member's receipt of the notice
Receive written report from MHP following evaluation OR use progressive discipline if member fails to report for evaluation
Take appropriate action based on written report, including administrative discharge, medical evaluation board or profile change. Do not take punitive action based on the evaluation.
