Promoting Mental Health Across GovCIO

Amidst two decades of continuous warfare, the mental well-being of veterans and service members has emerged as a pressing concern, drawing attention from both the media and those with personal military ties. While posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression are often spotlighted, they represent just a fraction of the mental health challenges faced by this community. Research suggests that around 14% to 16% of deployed US service members in Afghanistan and Iraq struggle with PTSD or depression, but it’s vital to recognize the broader spectrum of issues, including suicide, traumatic brain injury (TBI), substance use disorder (SUD), and interpersonal violence.

These challenges extend their impact beyond the individual, profoundly affecting service members and their families. While combat and deployments heighten the risk for mental health conditions, the strains of general military service should not be overlooked. These issues don’t adhere to a linear timeline, with certain periods proving especially stressful, such as during proximity to combat or when transitioning from active duty.

Understanding and addressing these multifaceted mental health concerns is imperative for supporting the well-being of veterans, service members, and their families alike.

Research supports that before the pandemic, one in five adults in the U.S. dealt with mental illness. Now, that figure has soared to about 80%, encompassing issues like anxiety, depression, and isolation.

In response, employers, like GovCIO, have become more proactive in supporting their employees’ mental well-being. Managers are encouraging open dialogue, while organizations are creating spaces for employees to connect and seek support, such as Employee Resource Groups (ERGs).

Additionally, the pandemic has brought to light racial disparities in mental health care access. Asian, Latino, and Black individuals face barriers accessing services compared to their white counterparts. Acknowledging this, DEI&A efforts are increasingly incorporating proactive mental health support.

As workplace stress levels continue to climb, employees often hesitate to seek help. A myriad of stressors, from co-worker conflicts to overwhelming workloads, coupled with concerns about job security and personal issues, can impact job performance. While businesses strive to address factors like work-life balance and job security, they may overlook the impact of employees’ personal lives on their work.

According to the American Institute of Stress, personal issues contribute to 20% of workplace stress. Fear of job loss often leads employees to keep these concerns to themselves, fearing repercussions. However, the effects of personal stressors inevitably spill over into the workplace.

To assist employees in managing these challenges, many companies, including GovCIO, offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). These programs are designed to provide support and resources for employees facing personal and work-related issues.