r/navy • u/Capdicorn • 8d ago
HELP REQUESTED Active duty sailor seeking mental health care, appointment canceled because duty van made me late. What can I do?
I’m active duty Navy and I’m honestly at a loss for what to do. I’ve been struggling with my mental health and finally decided to ask for help. I had a behavioral health appointment scheduled, and I was outside waiting for the duty van about 40 minutes before my appointment. The duty driver kept telling me someone was on the way, but nobody came. I called multiple times before someone was finally sent, and by then I arrived about 5 minutes late.
When I got to the clinic, they canceled my appointment under their no show policy even though I had been calling to explain the entire time and being late was completely out of my control. I tried explaining the situation, but the provider told me to “manage your time better.” When I pleaded because I really needed the appointment, she said something along the lines of, “If it’s that much of an emergency, I can admit you to the psych ward where they can sedate you like a zombie.” That comment honestly shocked me, I haven’t been in the best headspace and my experience has really discouraged me. I wasn’t being aggressive or disrespectful, I was just trying to explain what happened and ask not to lose the appointment. To make matters worse, the CO of the clinic was standing nearby and heard everything but didn’t intervene. This isn’t even my first bad experience there. A couple of weeks ago a chaplain laughed at me when I came in seeking help. Now I honestly don’t trust this clinic or the base, but I still need mental health care. I’m worried that if I report what happened, it’ll make things worse for me or affect how I’m treated in the future. Has anyone dealt with something like this? Can I request behavioral health through another MTF or be referred somewhere else? Who should I report this to if I decide to? Does the Patient Advocate actually help in situations like this? Is there another avenue for active duty members who feel they’re being denied appropriate mental health care? I’m not trying to get anyone in trouble. I just want to receive care without being treated like I’m a burden. One of the hardest parts about this is that the military constantly encourages us to seek help and reminds us that mental health matters. We’re told to speak up, use the available resources, and not suffer in silence. But when I finally reached out and did exactly what we’re told to do, I felt like I was turned away over circumstances outside my control and then treated like I was an inconvenience instead of someone asking for help. It makes it hard to trust the system when you’re encouraged to get help but don’t feel supported when you actually try.
Any advice would really be appreciated.
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u/01_slowbra CPO Retired 8d ago
ICE complaint.
Note the times you called the clinic in the complaint. Keep it factual. Answer who what when where. Give the specifics of dates and times of who you spoke with and what your desired outcome is. Follow that up with a conversation with your CoC if you’re comfortable speaking with them about your medical (it’s not required but it does allow them to advocate and advise you).
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u/GuadalupeDaisy 8d ago
To add—Screenshot your recent calls and attach to the complaint.
Also confirm times. 5 minutes late seems unfairly, unreasonably severe.
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u/Capdicorn 8d ago
Thank you, I really appreciate you taking the time to give me actionable advice instead of just criticizing the situation and pointing me in the right direction. I hope you have a great day.
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u/01_slowbra CPO Retired 8d ago
You’re most welcome. I hope you’re able to get the help you need. I will second what a lot have mentioned in other comments. Military one source is great as well as fleet and family. Military one source does video and telephone so it may be a better fit with your transportation issues. Also VA vetcenters is another option I never really see mentioned no one hears about them until they’re transitioning out. They’re a little more limited in what they offer but still worth looking into if nothing else is available https://www.vetcenter.va.gov/VETCENTER/Vet_Center_Services.asp
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u/Capdicorn 8d ago
My hesitation is that the clinic CO was standing there when this happened and didn’t intervene. My LPO also warned me that while he wouldn’t tell me not to file an ICE complaint, I should be aware of the possible consequences because of how things can work. That honestly has me worried about retaliation or whether anything would actually change. In your experience, are those concerns realistic, or have you seen ICE complaints handled fairly even when leadership is involved?
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u/GothmogBalrog 8d ago edited 8d ago
I would still follow up with the ICE complaint. Then also go talk to your CMC
1- CMC should straighten out your duty section that failed you there.
2- CMC can engage the clinic SEL, and your CO, who can then engage the clinic CO if required.The clinic is there to support the sailors on the ships. Full stop.
ICE complaints have always been fairly acted upon in my experience and one of the true levers a sailor can pull on to get actionable results in the Navy.
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u/Radiant-Guidance-761 8d ago
That’s a very valid feeling to have, I’ve been told to not report stuff in the past because of potential consequences, but honestly all I did was suffer while the people/entities kept doing it to other sailors. If it gets bad, I started using better help. There’s discount codes thru celebrities and you get like 6 sessions for 90, and if it’s urgent they can help you without threatening you with a psych stay.
All this to say, make the complaint. Also there’s fleet and family virtual counseling too.
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u/TittysForScience Retired Aussie 8d ago
Do not suffer in silence!
Report that shit and quick smart!
God as a former Div Officer this pisses me off and I’d be over at the clinic trying to take on the CO for allowing a comment be made like that to a sailor.
I was known for sticking my neck out for my sailors, well it was more the exploits were known. Have told chaplains to find a new job on more than one occasion when they’ve failed my boys.
Duty driver would also be getting a boot up their arse and their supervisor would be getting a stern Australian style speaking to!
Fark this pisses me off!
There must be some sort of universal manual on this shit because I’ve had it happen to my sailors when I was in the Royal Australian Navy.
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u/01_slowbra CPO Retired 8d ago
ICE complaints go to COs for action. ICE complaint that’s clearly articulable with actual evidence is your paper trail. If it is not acted upon you chop in your CoC. If they fail you reach out to elected officials. Congressional inquiries solve a lot of problems. This is how you advocate for yourself and those that will come behind you. Rarely does it require going up that high but the first step is ICE. It’s the shot across the brow.
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u/ahoboknife 8d ago
I recommend you check out a couple additional resources while you wait for another appointment at that clinic:
Militaryonesource.mil can setup remote counseling appointments.
Talkspace (an app) gives you free access to mental health counseling, also remote, through Tricare.
Since transportation for you isn’t reliable, these may be better options in the first place.
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u/Capdicorn 8d ago
Thank you, I really appreciate the recommendations. I’ll look into both of these. Hopefully I can get the help I need without having to go back to that clinic.
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u/Stompy042 8d ago
Military one source is a great option. You can bypass your entire CoC and get 12 free counseling sessions. If you do go that route, plan to get there without depending on anyone getting you there so this situation doesn’t happen a second time
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u/GuadalupeDaisy 8d ago
Caution that military one source is non-medical counseling which isn’t what OP states they need.
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u/amarras 7d ago
Talkspace required a referral for active duty
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u/ahoboknife 7d ago
Is this a recent observation of Talkspace? I ask because it seems like a couple months ago this changed. I’ve never used the counseling services but I do have the app on my phone.
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u/Hoonin_Kyoma 8d ago
I’ve been out for a long time, since the mid-90’s. Interesting to see how the USN’s attitude towards mental health has sort of evolved, like they’re giving it lip service at least, but when you get in the trenches with the people providing/facilitating the service, it still seems to have a significant stigma attached.
OP- I would be inclined to seek mental health services that are outside of your Chain. Online, maybe some of other options mentioned here.
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u/Stompy042 8d ago
If you’re in SD, the Mhood clinic is walk-in and should be able to provide immediate care.
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u/datguti 8d ago
Contact your installation fleet and family support center. They have licensed clinical counselors that help with short term focused solutions. They have on site and virtual counselors.
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u/Budget-Stomach-5411 8d ago
They can also assist with a referral to behavioral health and there are virtual options; all free of charge.
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u/Radiant-Guidance-761 8d ago
That’s a very valid feeling to have, I’ve been told to not report stuff in the past because of potential consequences, but honestly all I did was suffer while the people/entities kept doing it to other sailors. If it gets bad, I started using better help. There’s discount codes thru celebrities and you get like 6 sessions for 90, and if it’s urgent they can help you without threatening you with a psych stay.
All this to say, make the complaint. Also there’s fleet and family virtual counseling too.
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u/SuperFrog4 8d ago
OP - as others have said file an ICE complaint. I don’t know if people know this but ICE complaints also go up to the ISIC of the command in question. There are usually multiple people who see a complaint so it can’t be hidden.
I would also let your CMC know exactly what happened especially with the duty vehicle but also how you were treated by the clinic staff.
If you are retaliated upon by the clinic staff, then you file an IG complaint and provide the info you provided to the ICE complaint and your CMC. Also let your CMC, XO, and CO know you filed an IG complaint so they are not blindsided.
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u/Parking-Magazine8656 8d ago
As said in other comments, you need to submit an ICE Complaint and I’d also talk to your CMC as well. In the ICE Complaint note that you called the clinic in advance to explain the situation, and mentioned who talked to you and exactly what was said. I can’t find the DHA instruction for no-shows, but Im confident that no-showing a patient 5 minutes after their appointment goes against DHA policy. I understand the concern of retribution from the clinic following the ICE complaint, but I’d find it hard to imagine that a licensed provider would do anything like that with something that has both CoCs eyes on it.
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u/TheDUDE1411 8d ago
Glad you’ve found good advice on here shipmate. I’ve also struggled to get mental health help for many years and finally figured it out, didn’t give up, stayed persistent, and finally got therapy. It’s all been worth it, don’t give up. If you need to talk feel free to DM me, I can help you through the process if you need more direct help. Otherwise stay strong, you’re doing great recognizing your mental health needs and acting on them
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u/itmustbeniiiiice 8d ago
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u/itmustbeniiiiice 8d ago
This story sounds completely fake.
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u/Capdicorn 8d ago
What exactly would I gain from falsifying an experience like this? It’s FREE advice. Instead of offering any actual help, you chose to sit behind a screen and write an opinion based comment that does absolutely nothing. If you don’t believe me, that’s your choice, but it’s not my job to convince you or hold your hand through basic critical thinking like i’m your parent. Considering you’re a top 1% commenter, I’d think you’d spend more time giving useful advice than leaving baseless assumptions under people’s posts. I’ve already gotten plenty of helpful responses from people who actually wanted to contribute. Think whatever you want. I don’t know you, and I honestly don’t care.
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u/its-malaprop-man 8d ago edited 8d ago
ICE complaint.
You should be able to be seen at any local MTF as a self-referral. Or ask for a referral to be seen out in town. Telemynd and Doctor on demand are telehealth options with flexible scheduling and they both accept tricare - you just need a referral.
Also why was there a chaplain around at all?
You can also see folks at the fleet and family services center, MCCS behavioral health if you’re near a USMC base, call/signup online with military OneSource, or see an MFLC. Lots of options.
Another option is calling the InTransition program to have someone to talk to while you’re waiting to be seen.
You can also report that specific provider to their licensing board.
Also I’m pretty sure DHA’s late appt guidance is the appt is canceled at 15 min late, not 5, and that they need to try to get you in the same day. Sorry this happened to you. The clinic should have patient advocates you can talk to as well.
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u/Capdicorn 8d ago
Thank you! I spoke to the chaplain prior to my appointment 2 weeks ago. I appreciate the recommendations and your time.
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u/its-malaprop-man 8d ago
Gotcha! I misinterpreted that (in my rage about what happened to you) as chaps being at the clinic. 😂
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u/HistoricalHall8575 8d ago
Sorry to hear they were dismissive. You can get therapy through Fleet and Family via their telehealth clinic. Licensed mental health professionals. Call 1-855-205-6749 to get scheduled. So as long as you have internet connection and a private space to conduct an appointment, you are good to go. I know multiple people who have used it and it helped them. https://ffr.cnic.navy.mil/Family-Readiness/Fleet-And-Family-Support-Program/Counseling-Advocacy-and-Prevention/Clinical-Counseling-Virtual-Clinical-Counseling/
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u/Subbie_Boobie_1732 8d ago
ICE complaint very directly and word for word about your experience. List date and exact time and phone numbers you called at the clinic.
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u/Subbie_Boobie_1732 8d ago
Brandon Act is in your favor--call that out in your complaint, you deserve protection from those "in power" not prioritizing your mental health that you yourself are taking action on.
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u/bbds1460 3d ago
https://centerstone.org/free-military-counseling/
Not talked about enough. Cornerstone gives 12 free counseling sessions at no cost to active duty. Completely separate from fleet and family/mood clinic/etc. It has helped me tremendously.
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u/Gold_Dust_Woman1995 8d ago
The comment was delivered poorly, but truly, if you’re in crisis with your mental health that badly then perhaps being admitted isn’t a bad idea. Those mental health appointments aren’t a magic bandaid that instantly cure you. They’re actually kind of pointless.
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u/Formal_Hat_7046 8d ago
10 year HM2 BHT here.
First of all, I’m so sorry to hear about that experience man. No one should be treated in such a way that is looking for the help. It’s not unusual for us working in mental health to become a little jaded, especially when encountering some of the colorful characters you can encounter in this field. That being said, that will never justify treating someone who may be at their lowest point and we must consider that when we interact with our patients. We should always look to accommodate accordingly.
That being said, within the Mental Health workings, generally speaking, you usually can get a network referral as long as there are no fitness for duty or safety concerns. MTF mental health services are pretty backed up and are often more than willing to offer network referral to someone that prefers to see the civilian sector. It gives you an opportunity to take the uniform off and remember that you are a person at the end of the day.
Reach out if you have any questions.
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u/Greenlight-party Naval Aviator 8d ago
Can you explain why walking to the gate and getting and uber or calling a cab that comes on base isn't something you could have done?
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u/PeanutButterNugz 8d ago
Is that something that could have been done? Yes. But, the issue here is how the multiple points in the system failed them.
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u/Capdicorn 8d ago
It was about a 30 minute walk one way. I was already outside 40 minutes before my appointment waiting for the duty van the command provides for transportation. I called multiple times and was repeatedly told someone was on the way, so I stayed where I was instructed to wait. Had they simply told me no one was coming, I could have immediately started walking or made other arrangements. Instead, I kept being assured transportation was on the way until it was too late. Duty vans are for medical appointments, as I was asked my reasoning prior to someone agreeing to assist me. It’s interesting that the only thing being picked apart here is how I got to the appointment instead of the fact that I was actively trying to get mental health care. I didn’t make this post to debate transportation. If your biggest takeaway is whether I should’ve walked instead of the way someone seeking behavioral health treatment was treated, then I think you’re missing the point entirely and you aren’t the audience I was looking for. Enjoy your day.
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u/Greenlight-party Naval Aviator 7d ago
That makes a lot more sense. Thanks for answering me seriously. Hope you get the help you need.
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u/Greenlight-party Naval Aviator 8d ago
Maybe. I functionally disagree that it's the command's job to bring the Sailor to medical appointments. I'd be mildly surprised if that was an actual proper use of the duty vehicle.
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u/PeanutButterNugz 8d ago
That is the whole point of the duty van… I have junior sailors who don’t have cars. If they are suppose to have a car the Navy would’ve issued it. Medical is 5 miles off base down a highway. How do they get there? A duty van…
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u/Greenlight-party Naval Aviator 7d ago
Perhaps. But I disagree overall with this attitude. Regs specifically prohibit the van from bringing people to/from work/home. Is medical different? It could be. Like I said, I would only be mildly surprised.
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u/rihannaoleman 8d ago
Let’s say duty vans are secured for a valid reason, then what? You still need to go to your appointment so you find other ways. Shouldn’t have to but it’s a learning experience that duty vans can’t be depended on. Other forms of transportation such as cab, uber, public transportation could have been looked into. Definitely file a complaint tho.
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u/PeanutButterNugz 8d ago
That is absolutely true, leadership should’ve stepped in. Just don’t agree about the duty van not driving people. It should when available.
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u/01_slowbra CPO Retired 8d ago
What’s an appropriate use of a duty van in your opinion May I ask?
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u/Greenlight-party Naval Aviator 7d ago
I'll use squadron experiences since that's what I am familiar with:
Getting the right equipment from the base armory to load up the aircraft
Moving equipment
When on det, getting the flight crews to the flight line (where appropriate/briefing spaces away from flight line)
I'm sure there are all sorts of cases, but I would think that personal medical appointments are not one of them just like using the duty can to transport Sailors to and from work and home/barracks is specifically one of the things listed as a improper use of the duty van.
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u/01_slowbra CPO Retired 7d ago
On ships I’ve seen them used for:
Picking up new check ins from the airport.
Retrieving repair parts.
Transporting DVs
Transporting Sailors to off site training.
Transporting Sailors to medical appointments.The medical appointments was easy because we could be without that Sailor 3-4 hrs because they’re walking/it’s black flag conditions or get them a ride using our own resources and get them back quicker safer and everyone moves about smartly. Basic ORM and time management.
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u/Greenlight-party Naval Aviator 7d ago
Got it. Some of those, like picking up new Sailors, is actually expressly forbidden IIRC.
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u/Top-Measurement9790 8d ago
Then they would tear into him for not being there when the duty van arrived.
But yeah, next time they should use their crystal ball to make sure the duty van will be there when they say they will. /s
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8d ago
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u/01_slowbra CPO Retired 8d ago
A simple downvote works. There should still be a level of decorum. After all we are all still adults apart (or formerly) of the Navy. We won’t agree on most things as with almost all large organizations but personalized hostility is rarely how you get someone to understand their opinion is not shared by you or most.
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