FY2024 NDAA: Military Mental Health Workforce Provisions (CRS Report for Congress)
| Release Date |
Revised Jan. 23, 2024 |
| Report Number |
IN12268 |
| Report Type |
Insight |
| Authors |
Bryce H. P. Mendez |
| Source Agency |
Congressional Research Service |
| Older Revisions |
-
Premium Oct. 25, 2023 (4 pages, $24.95)
add
|
Summary:
rs mental health programs that offer education; awareness; crisis prevention
resources; clinical treatment; nonclinical support and counseling services; and research and development.
DOD has estimated that, from 2016 through 2020, 456,293 active duty servicemembers were diagnosed
with at least one mental health disorder. Mental health disorders also accounted for the highest number of
hospital bed days and were the second most common reason for outpatient visits among servicemembers.
During the same time period, the majority (64%) of mental health diagnoses were attributed to adjustment
disorders, anxiety disorders, and depressive disorders.
DOD has made numerous efforts to address the wide range of mental health issues, and the Government
Accountability Office (GAO), DOD Inspector General (DODIG), and other observers of military health
have highlighted potential opportunities for improvement. During ongoing deliberations on an FY2024
NDAA, Congress has expressed interest in understanding the current state of DOD's mental health
workforce and resources available to servicemembers and their families through the Military Health
System (MHS), the military departments, and Military OneSource.
