Can I get in trouble with my command for going to see someone at my Behavioral Health for a crisis, and without telling anyone?

2018-07-25T16:14:33-04:00

I have been having some issues keeping my emotions and mentality. I started to break down and could not control my emotions or thoughts. I recently admitted to behavioral health that I have had thoughts of Suicide just no actual intentions. My chain of command has a tendency of when we need to go somewhere to push it off till a later time. I have gotten in trouble for having my physical therapy sessions done during pt hours even though that’s the only time I can actually benefit to pt hours due to my recent surgery. I just want to know if even though I really needed to see someone but I failed to let a chain of command know am I still in the wrong?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 25 at 2018 5:52 PM

2018-07-25T17:52:24-04:00

Nope!!!! When i have appointments, i send out calendar invites to all concerned and keep it moving. However, if you are having thoughts of harming yourself i strongly suggest you talk with someone in your COC.
If you have legitimate medical issues and have been referred to a specialist, you should be afforded every opportunity to get back in the fight. The limits of your profile and your rehab should be listed within your current profile. Hopefully your CoC will do right you and allow you to rehab and get fit. Good luck and be well.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Jul 25 at 2018 5:56 PM

2018-07-25T17:56:36-04:00

You need to take care of your health, but you have a responsibility to the command. How can they assist without the knowledge. I have found that when Soldiers, Donctors and the Command work together the Soldier fairs much better with their care. If Command is unaware they cannot be expected to understand specialty needs/care required to help with your health and wellbeing. Thank you for your service and take care of your health.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 25 at 2018 5:58 PM

2018-07-25T17:58:17-04:00

I am glad you sought help. There is no shame in that, and no stigma should be attached. Ask your physician and counselor if it is necessary to do so, and then please follow their guidance. Good luck! PV2 Private RallyPoint Member

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 25 at 2018 6:30 PM

2018-07-25T18:30:21-04:00

Absolutely NOT!! Your health and mental health are you foremost concern! Seek help when needed, without embarrassment or shame. It is a must when needed... you can inform them, however you do not need consent or approval. IMHO...

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Jul 25 at 2018 10:11 PM

2018-07-25T22:11:31-04:00

No, not wrong, thoughts of suicide are red flags for yourself. After you talk to behavioral health- if they want more times or set sessions- then tell the CoC, and work it out between the two. Do NOT blow off what the BH says, and don't let the CoC sway you from this.

Response by MAJ Javier Rivera made Jul 26 at 2018 3:06 PM

2018-07-26T15:06:10-04:00

Not at all but to the contrary, they should be proud of you taking care of yourself! You absolutely did the right thing.

Response by 1SG Charles Hunter made Jul 27 at 2018 10:37 AM

2018-07-27T10:37:28-04:00

"... going to see someone ... without telling anyone?" Your chain of command cannot deny you access to medical care, including mental health. However, you do need permission to absent yourself from your place of duty. Your physical therapy sessions are not scheduled at your unit's convenience, but are based on the availability of your physical therapy provider. Who are you in trouble with for getting medical care?

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2018 4:10 PM

2018-08-20T16:10:15-04:00

No not necessarily. However would you atleast feel comfortable letting your 1st line know your going to behavioral health? As far as informing them why isn’t necessary