Find answers to some of the most common questions about The Brandon Act, requesting help, confidentiality, and mental health support.
It’s normal to have questions when you’re considering asking for help or supporting someone who is. This page answers many of the questions we hear most often from service members, military families, and leaders.
If you don’t find the answer you’re looking for, remember—you are not alone. Continue exploring the Resource Center or contact the Brandon Caserta Foundation for additional guidance.
About The Brandon Act
The Brandon Act is a federal law that helps active-duty service members confidentially request a mental health evaluation through authorized individuals.
The law was created to remove barriers that can make it difficult for service members to seek mental health care and to encourage early intervention before a crisis occurs.
The Brandon Act currently applies to active-duty members of the United States Armed Forces. Policies continue to evolve regarding the National Guard and Reserve Components.
Yes. Each military branch has implemented policies to carry out The Brandon Act, although procedures may vary slightly between branches.
Requesting Help
No. You have the right to request a mental health evaluation. You do not have to justify or prove why you are asking.
Yes. If you’re uncomfortable making the request yourself, a trusted person may be able to assist you in communicating your request, depending on your branch’s procedures.
Yes. If you have questions about your options, speak with your healthcare provider or the individual helping coordinate your request.
Your request should be processed according to your branch’s Brandon Act policy, and you’ll be connected with the appropriate mental health resources.
Confidentiality & Privacy
The Brandon Act is designed to provide a confidential pathway to request a mental health evaluation. Information is shared only with those who have a legitimate need to know in accordance with military policies and applicable laws.
Not necessarily. Information is handled according to privacy requirements and military policy.
Seeking mental health care does not automatically end a military career. Many service members receive care and continue serving successfully. Every situation is unique, depending on individual circumstances and military requirements.
If Problems Arise
Remain calm and respectfully explain that The Brandon Act is federal law and has been implemented by each military branch. If needed, ask to speak with another authorized individual or refer to your branch’s Brandon Act policy.
If you believe your request wasn’t handled properly, continue advocating for yourself. Seek assistance from another authorized individual, your medical clinic, or your patient advocate if appropriate.
No one should be discouraged from seeking mental health care. If you believe you’ve experienced retaliation, document what happened and seek assistance through the appropriate military channels.
Mental Health
Asking for help is one of the strongest things you can do. It takes courage to recognize when you need support and to take the first step toward getting it.
If you’re wondering whether you should ask for help, that’s often a good reason to talk with someone. You don’t have to wait until you’re in crisis.
Encourage them to seek professional support, offer to help them through the process, and continue checking in with compassion.
Still Have Questions?
Even after reading through this Resource Center, you may still have questions or feel uncertain. That’s okay.
Seeking help is not always easy, and it is completely normal to want more information before taking the next step.
Remember, you do not have to navigate this alone.
Every situation is unique, and we’re committed to helping service members and families find the information they need.
Continue exploring the Brandon Act Resource Center or contact the Brandon Caserta Foundation for additional guidance and resources.
If you’re unsure where to begin, start with one simple step.
Tell someone you trust that you’re struggling. That person may be a family member, friend, fellow service member, chaplain, supervisor, medical provider, or another trusted individual.
You can also return to the beginning of this Resource Center and follow the step-by-step guidance. It was designed to walk you through the process one step at a time.
Choosing to ask for help is never the wrong decision.
The Brandon Act exists to help service members receive a mental health evaluation when they need one. Taking care of your mental health is a sign of strength, professionalism, and courage.
You do not have to wait until things become unbearable.
Talking with someone early can often prevent a crisis from becoming more serious.
If you are in immediate crisis or believe you may harm yourself, call 911, dial 988 (then press 1 for the Veterans & Military Crisis Line), or text 838255 to connect with confidential support.
Visit TheBrandonAct.org to learn more about:
- The Brandon Act
- Your rights
- Military policies
- Resources for families
- Training and educational materials
- The Brandon Caserta Foundation
The Brandon Caserta Foundation was created by Brandon’s family after his death with one simple goal:
To make sure no service member has to struggle alone or wonder where to turn for help.
Whether you are seeking help for yourself, supporting someone you care about, or simply learning about The Brandon Act, we are honored to be part of your journey.
❤️ Remember
No question is too small.
Whether you’re asking for yourself, supporting someone you care about, or simply trying to understand The Brandon Act, seeking information is an important first step.
Knowledge leads to confidence.
Confidence leads to action.
And action can save lives.
❤️ A Message Inspired by Brandon
If Brandon could speak to every service member reading this today, we believe his message would be simple…
You are never a burden.
No matter what you’re facing, your life has value. The people who care about you would rather stand beside you during your hardest days than lose the opportunity to help you through them.
Asking for help does not make you weak. It takes courage to speak up, and courage has always been one of the greatest strengths a person can have.
Take care of yourself the same way you would take care of a fellow service member or a member of your family. You deserve compassion, support, and hope.
Your story is not over.
There are people ready to listen.
There are people who care.
There is help available.
Brandon’s Guiding Values:
Honor • Respect • Patience • Kindness