During the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us may experience increased familial stressors, as we've taken on the roles of full-time caretaker, teacher, all while simultaneously navigating the uncharted waters of full-time teleworking or continuing to report for duty standing the watch.
Today’s stress is real and felt widespread across our organization from within our own homes, throughout our units and across our command.
We will make it through this and if you need a helping hand, you have an entire organization standing by to assist.
Vice Admiral Linda Fagan, Commander Pacific Area, and Pacific Area Command Master Chief Heath Jones want to reinforce their support and emphasize the resources available to help.
The increased stressors we're facing, in addition to physical isolation from our family, friends, coworkers and helpers can exacerbate feelings of loneliness, frustration, and/or grief. In addition, concerns of neglect, emotional abuse, and physical violence are on the rise, as are maladaptive coping behaviors. When stress is high, identifying ways to take care of yourself and exercise mental health is key, so you'll remain there for your loved ones.
Now more than ever, we are utilizing networks and increasing awareness with digital tools that make connection possible during a climate of physical distancing.
Seeking counsel or support is strongly encouraged, even if virtual or telephonic assistance at first feels "remote". Given the austere environments in which our members serve, and the requirements for physical distancing, help is as close as a phone call away.
Asking for help early, when you are feeling out of balance or facing a stressful situation, is essential for your emotional well-being and mission readiness.
The Coast Guard remains unwavering in its absolute commitment to the emotional well-being of our Service members and our families. Your Coast Guard leaders, shipmates, and civilian employees at all levels are encouraged to proactively support a colleague in need of assistance.
Even in times of uncertainty, you are not alone.
Resources:
Coast Guard Chaplains: 1-855-972-4242
CG Employee Assistance Program (EAP) via CG SUPRT - 1-855-247-8778 (855-CGSUPRT) for 24/7 suicide crisis services.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is: 1-800-273-8255 (800-273-TALK).
TRICARE offers many helpful programs and resources for military members and covers both inpatient and outpatient treatment for mental health and substance abuse disorders.
To view all TRICARE covered mental health care services, visit:
https://tricare.mil/CoveredServices/Mental/Treatments.
Confidential help is also available through the Military Crisis Line at:
800-273-TALK (8255), Disaster Distress Helpline at 800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746.
Text "HOME" to 741741 anywhere in the United States and you will be connected with a live trained Crisis Counselor.
The Military Health System (MHS) Nurse Advice Line is also available 24/7 for urgent care questions and health care advice. The Nurse Advice Line can be reached at: 800-TRICARE (874-2273)
VIDEO TRANSCRIPT:
VICE ADM. LINDA FAGAN
I’m Vice Admiral Linda Fagan, Commander, Pacific Area.
I’m here with Master Chief Jones, and together we are incredibly proud of the men and women of Pacific Area.
COMMAND MASTER CHIEF HEATH JONES
Since mid-March, we’ve adapted to a COVID environment.
We’ve deployed cutters to the East PAC and the Bering Sea, and you’re still guarding our ports and conducting search and rescue. You’ve had to adapt how you work – face masks, social distancing, virtual tools – and you still excelled in all our mission areas.
VICE ADM. LINDA FAGAN
We focused a lot on personal wellness and best practices to avoid getting sick. Today we want to talk about the equally important part of personal wellness and operational readiness, and that’s your mental and emotional health.
COMMAND MASTER CHIEF HEATH JONES
Living in the Covid-19 environment is complicated. Our basic daily routines have completely changed, we can no longer visit friends and family. You may be worried about your health or the health of loved ones
VICE ADM. LINDA FAGAN
And there are many stressors, like potential job loss by family and kids being out of school or day care. You may feel guilty for your own feelings of sadness or stress, thinking that others have greater hardships.
COMMAND MASTER CHIEF HEATH JONES
Vice Admiral Fagan and I want you to know that we understand that you may be going through emotional struggles right now. We also want you to know that you are not alone. It is okay to admit that you are having a hard time. It is okay to ask for help.
If you break your arm or get a sore throat, you are going to go the doctor.
If you are feeling depressed, isolated, or struggling with emotions, it is equally important that you reach out for help. Our Coast Guard has lost six active duty members to suicide this year, 3 in the last week. That is six too many. Wellness is a 24-hour watch. Your shipmates, supervisors, chaplains, and work life teams will gladly talk with you any time of the day or night when you need support.
VICE ADM. LINDA FAGAN
The United States Coast Guard is the world’s best Coast Guard, and it’s because of our amazing workforce.
COMMAND MASTER CHIEF HEATH JONES
Each of our active duty, reserve, civilian, and Auxiliary members matter.
VICE ADM. LINDA FAGAN
You matter. If you are hurting, please tell someone. You are not alone.
COMMAND MASTER CHIEF HEATH JONES
Just as we’ve achieved our operational successes through teamwork and communication, we must also look out for each other’s mental and emotional help.
VICE ADM. LINDA FAGAN
We will weather this storm together, we will be stronger together. Semper Paratus.
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