The Brandon Act: Pioneering Mental Health Care Transformation for Airmen and Guardians

In a significant step towards enhancing mental health care support for Airmen and Guardians, the implementation of the Brandon Act is set to transform how mental health concerns are addressed within the United States Air Force and Space Force installations. This landmark initiative is poised to not only streamline access to mental health services but also foster a culture of empathy and support within the military community.

Origins and Purpose of the Brandon Act

Named after Navy Aviation Electrician’s Mate 3rd Class Brandon Caserta, whose tragic suicide in 2018 highlighted the urgent need for better mental health care provisions, the Brandon Act has emerged as a beacon of hope for service members struggling with mental health challenges. Brandon’s parents, Teri and Patrick Caserta have been instrumental in championing the implementation of the Act, which was incorporated into the 2022 National Defense Authorization Act.

The Brandon Act seeks to address two critical aspects of mental health care:

1. Easier Access and Requirement for Mental Health Support: Under the Brandon Act, leaders are obligated to treat mental health concerns seriously and facilitate access to mental health services for service members. By referencing “The Brandon Act” when seeking a referral to mental health support, Airmen and Guardians can ensure that their request is prioritized and expedited.
2. Confidential Help Outside Chain of Command: The Act empowers service members to seek confidential assistance for mental health concerns outside the traditional chain of command, fostering an environment where individuals can openly seek help without fear of reprisal.

Teri, the mother of Petty Officer Caserta, acknowledged that the path for the Brandon Act has been lengthy. However, she remains optimistic that implementing the Act across all military services will help save lives and reduce the stigma of seeking mental health assistance.

Meanwhile, Patrick also expressed his hope that leaders and supervisors become familiar with the Brandon Act, sharing the same sentiments on dispelling any stigma. He believes that asking for assistance is an act of courage and mature judgment. During a call with Secretary Kendall, the father of Petty Officer Caserta expressed confidence in the leadership’s ability to drive change and improve the military while saving lives. Patrick extended his gratitude to Secretary Kendall for embracing and implementing the Brandon Act, acknowledging the hard work he has done and continues to do for Airmen and Guardians.

.@DoD_USD_PR recently signed a policy to implement the Brandon Act to improve the process for service members to seek mental health support. The parents of Brandon Caserta discuss the importance of learning more about available resources & supporting service members. pic.twitter.com/oD35RPMYgb

— Department of Defense 🇺🇸 (@DeptofDefense) June 10, 2023

Key Components of the Brandon Act Implementation

A pivotal aspect of the Brandon Act implementation is the ability for Airmen and Guardians to voluntarily request a mental health referral by contacting their commander or supervisor (E-6 or above). This simple step invokes the Act and triggers an expedited referral process. Importantly, individuals are not required to provide a reason or justification for seeking a referral, further reducing the stigma associated with seeking mental health support.

When a service member initiates a Brandon Act request, their commander or supervisor is mandated to promptly contact the mental health clinic and schedule an appointment for the member, either in-person, via telephone, or through telehealth options. This swift response ensures that individuals receive the care they need without unnecessary delays.

Notably, the Brandon Act referral process differs from command-directed or independent referrals. A Brandon Act referral is initiated by the service member themselves, highlighting their agency and control over their mental health care journey.

The Path Forward and Ongoing Support

Recognizing the paramount importance of mental health care, the Department of the Air Force has demonstrated its commitment to supporting Airmen and Guardians through initiatives like the Brandon Act – The Commander/Supervisor Facilitated Referral Program. As this program rolls out across installations, commanders and supervisors will receive annual training to help them identify signs that may necessitate a mental health evaluation. This training will also equip them with the knowledge to assist service members in obtaining a Brandon Act referral while respecting their privacy.

With the implementation of the Brandon Act, Airmen and Guardians will have easier access to mental health resources & an additional referral process for mental health care. https://t.co/AWAiZE2nc0 pic.twitter.com/QX70hF0lVy

— U.S. Air Force (@usairforce) August 7, 2023

Additionally, the Department of the Air Force offers a range of mental health resources to complement the Brandon Act’s provisions. The 988 Veterans Crisis Line, Military OneSource nonmedical counseling, and the 24/7 Psychological Health Resource Center stand as invaluable sources of support for service members in need.

A New Era of Mental Health Care

The expediting of the Brandon Act throughout Air Force and Space Force installations marks a pivotal moment in the prioritization of mental health within the military. By providing a clear and accessible pathway to mental health support, the Act is not only a testament to the resilience of the Airmen and Guardians but also a testament to the dedication of leaders and policymakers to creating a safer and more compassionate environment. As the Brandon Act becomes an integral part of the military’s approach to mental health care, the hope is that lives will be saved, stigma will be diminished, and a culture of well-being will flourish within the ranks.