Prioritizing Mental Fitness Keeps Airmen Mission-Ready

Official Statements

• Joint Base Lindsey Graham, November 13: “JOINT BASE LINDSEY GRAHAM, S.C. — Mental fitness is the ability to effectively cope with the unique mental stressors and challenges needed to ensure mission readiness. The 628th Operational Medical Readiness Squadron is here to assist Airmen manage stress, adapt to life changes, make clear decisions and perform their duties effectively.”

• Joint Base Lindsey Graham, November 13: “If you aren’t mentally fit, then how will you be physically capable to perform the job that you are entrusted with?" asked U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Shaniah Mitchell, 628th OMRS mental health technician. “Being able to maintain your mental health is pivotal when it comes to being fit for duty.” The demands of military service can have effects beyond the workplace, such as frequent relocations, prolonged separations, and post-traumatic stress disorder.”

• Joint Base Lindsey Graham, November 13: “We uphold a high standard that sometimes takes a mental toll," said Mitchell. “The effects could show within your personal life, your squadron or within your flight.” When mental health needs go unaddressed, health restrictions impact deployment readiness, unit cohesion erodes, and treatable concerns develop into career-ending medical conditions.”

• Joint Base Lindsey Graham, November 13: “Even though it is the 21st century, mental health still has a very big stigma,” said Staff Sgt. Haley Collins, 628th OMRS mental health technician. “As the years have gone on, the stigma has lessened, but I think it is still a sensitive topic.” The 628th OMRS offers mental health services to help Airmen address personal and professional concerns. Services may include counseling, group therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder testing.”

• Joint Base Lindsey Graham, November 13: “It's a safe space that people can come to when they maybe are in crisis,” said Collins. “Everybody cares about you and members of our team welcome you to come in and talk about whatever it may be.” Regardless of rank, Airmen have mental health services available to them and do not have to face challenges alone. Seeking help can support Airmen in maintaining their health, readiness and ability to serve.”

• Joint Base Lindsey Graham, November 13: “Airmen seeking mental health services can contact the 628th Medical Group at 843-963-6880. Services are available Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.”