A&FRC provides a light within darkness

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Ethan Morgan
  • 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
RAF MILDENHALL, England --  There are times when things just seem to do nothing but go wrong and it feels like being trapped in a hole without a way out, but luckily there are agencies that can help.

The 100th Force Support Squadron, Airmen and Family Readiness Center offers support services for issues such as financial, family, career, transition assistance, benefits and family member career guidance.

Personal and work-life consultation services and activities are also offered, and can be delivered individually or in groups which can facilitate understanding and build skills, said Cynthia Harrison, 100th FSS A&FRC chief. She added that it also enables adults to increase the effectiveness of daily living, relating to others, coping with life events and realizing self-potential.

"Sometimes just providing a confidential, non-judgmental and empathic environment allows a person to fully express their feelings of loss, frustration or sorrow," said Kevin Carrico, 100 FSS A&FRC counselor. "Once expressed, the person feels fully heard and validated and can regain their focus on everyday challenges."

All of these services are open to anyone with a Department of Defense ID card including civilians, retirees and their dependents.

The A&FRC allows walk-in consults, but due to large amount of customers, they recommend members schedule an appointment. On average, airmen can be seen within 48 to 72 hours. The A&FRC has numerous staff members, five of whom specialize in a field of counseling the A&FRC offers.

Though all counseling services provided by the A&FRC are confidential, it's important to note the staff members don't have complete privileged communication. This means that A&FRC members are required by law, with or without the customer's approval, to contact the proper authorities if they suspect that the member is in danger to themselves or others.

"Some customers may need intense mental health therapy and our services would not be sufficient." said Harrison. "But for others, they may just require assistance with relationship and lifestyle choices and guidance."

The A&FRC does not refuse service for any situation, and will help anyone get through a crisis situation.

"Our goal is to act quickly to provide necessary information, emotional support, and the reassurance that he or she can handle the situation," said Harrison. She went on to say if necessary, in cases such as if the individual were suicidal, the A&FRC would ensure they are referred the most appropriate place of assistance such as the emergency room or mental health clinic.

For more information contact the A&FRC at DSN 238-3406.