DOD's inTransition Program launches PSA campaign

  • Published
FALLS CHURCH, Va. --  The Defense Department developed six inTransition program public service announcements to educate service members, veterans, Reserve and National Guard members, health care providers and family members about the program's coaching resources. The inTransition PSAs provide an overview of what the program provides to each audience and how to get more information.

When military members and their families make a transition -- like a deployment or permanent change of station - it is important that they have the right support systems in place. For those receiving treatment for psychological health concerns, the inTransition Coaching and Support Program offers personalized support as they move between health care systems or providers.

"For some individuals, behavioral health care may be a long process, following them from their military service through transition to the Department of Veterans Affairs system and, for some, a transition to civilian life," said Capt. Paul S. Hammer, Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury director. "Psychological health and well-being are key components of a healthy, fit force."

The inTransition program helps people navigate changes and maintain mission readiness. When a service member or veteran contacts inTransition, they are assigned a personal coach who will:

-- Coach them one-on-one through their transition
-- Connect them with their new provider
-- Empower them with tools to help them continue making healthy life choices

InTransition coaches are master's-level behavioral health clinicians who understand today's military culture and issues. They provide telephone coaching on how to change providers at the time of transfer or discharge; provide referral support and new provider follow-up; and provide crisis intervention when necessary. They understand and respect the privacy of service members and veterans. Coaches are available 24/7 and are accessible from any location.

To view the new videos, go to www.health.mil/intransition/PSA.aspx. For more information about the inTransition Program, visit www.health.mil/InTransition or call its confidential, toll-free number at 800-424-7877.