If your request was denied, delayed without explanation, or you were told you could not request a mental health evaluation under The Brandon Act, you are not alone.
While every situation is different, a denial does not necessarily mean your request was handled correctly. Sometimes misunderstandings occur because leaders or authorized individuals may not be familiar with The Brandon Act or their responsibilities under current policy.
If you believe your request was not handled appropriately, there are steps you can take to advocate for yourself and continue seeking the care you deserve.
Remember, your mental health matters, and help is still available.
Understanding Your Situation
Not every denial is the same. You may have been:
- Told The Brandon Act doesn’t exist.
- Told you must go through your chain of command first.
- Told you don’t qualify.
- Told to wait without explanation.
- Discouraged from seeking care.
- Unsure whether your request was actually processed.
If any of these situations occurred, don’t assume your options have ended.
If Your Request Was Denied
Consider taking one or more of the following steps:
- Calmly ask why your request was denied.
- Ask to speak with another authorized individual.
- Contact your installation’s Behavioral Health Clinic.
- Speak with your Primary Care Manager (PCM).
- Contact a Chaplain.
- Request assistance from another trusted leader.
- Review your branch’s Brandon Act policy.
- Document what occurred, including dates, times, and individuals involved.
If you’re unsure how to proceed, continue seeking support. You deserve access to appropriate mental health care.
If you believe your request was not handled in accordance with your Service’s policy:
- Remain respectful and professional.
- Keep a record of what occurred.
- Review your branch’s official Brandon Act policy.
- Seek assistance from another authorized individual if appropriate.
- Continue pursuing the mental health care you need.
The goal is not to assign blame—it is to ensure you receive timely access to care.
If your situation becomes urgent, don’t wait.
If you believe you may be in immediate danger of harming yourself or someone else:
- Call 911
- Call 988 and Press 1
- Text 838255
- Go to your nearest Emergency Department
- Tell someone you trust immediately
Your safety is always the highest priority.
Being told “no” does not mean you should stop asking for help.
If one pathway doesn’t work, another one will.
There are people who care about your well-being and want to help you receive the care you deserve.
Please don’t give up.
Need Additional Assistance?
If you believe your request was not handled appropriately and you’re unsure what to do next, The Brandon Caserta Foundation may be able to provide educational resources about The Brandon Act and help you understand available options.
The Brandon Act was created so that no service member would feel they had to face mental health challenges alone or without support. If your first request wasn’t successful, please don’t let that be the end of your journey. Continue asking for help until you receive the care you need. Your life matters, and there are people who want to help.