BREMERTON, Wash. –
As the nation observes National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month this September, leaders at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility are reminding employees that seeking mental health support is not only encouraged—it’s also protected.
Aaron Saylor, supervisor, Shop 740, Riggers and Handlers, knows firsthand how important it is to seek clarity and connection during difficult times.
Saylor came to PSNS & IMF after his Army career was cut short due to injuries he suffered. Like many others, he struggled during his transition back to civilian life, as he began his career at the shipyard. When the counseling program was introduced, he decided to investigate and see what it was about.
“I walked over to ask questions, and it opened my eyes,” said Saylor. “You can’t go by hearsay in this place. Sometimes you have to go find answers. I’m glad I did.”
Saylor emphasized that many workers face emotional and professional stress—and that getting help can make a difference.
“Everyone here has pressure and work issues,” he said. “Sometimes you need to look around and realize you are not alone. Emotions and stress are like lifting heavy things. You may need some help until you are strong enough to handle them on your own.”
For many employees, concerns about their security clearance can be a barrier to getting help. However, those concerns are often based on misunderstanding, according to Nikki Voge, personnel security program manager, Code 1125, Personnel Security. Voge explained that clearance evaluations at PSNS & IMF center on three key questions:
Has the employee acknowledged they have a problem?
Have they self-reported and sought help?
Are they open to receiving assistance?
“One of the biggest misconceptions about security clearances is the belief or fear that seeking mental health treatment will cost an employee their security clearance,” said Voge. “The act of seeking mental health treatment/counseling in and of itself is not a reason to deny or revoke a security clearance, and it is often seen as a positive step in addressing and mitigating concerns. It may contribute favorably to decision regarding continued eligibility.”
Tracy Middleton, counselor with the PSNS & IMF Command Counseling Program, is adamant that seeking support does NOT disqualify someone from holding a security clearance.
“We are here to support the workforce in fostering wellness and self-care,” Middleton said. “The (shipyard commander) approved time allowed for the workforce to receive these services during working hours to support emotional wellbeing. The command wants to help, and it is encouraging workers to seek help.”
Marissa Michalke, counselor, PSNS & IMF Command Counseling Program, works closely with shipyard employees through the Command Counseling Program and echoed the message that asking for help is not a sign of failure—but a sign of strength and of being human.
“We are here to encourage employees to seek help when they need it,” Michalke said. “We are solution-focused and let people speak without fear or judgment. It’s OK not to be OK.”
Despite lingering fears about how leadership might react to an employee seeking mental health support, both Middleton and Michalke say that supervisors at PSNS & IMF, in their experience, are supportive and proactive.
“I’ve seen leaders walk their workers down here themselves to get them help,” Michalke said. “I have not seen a supervisor who wasn’t supportive when someone sought assistance.”
The Command Counseling Program offers services tailored to the unique needs of shipyard personnel. That includes availability for employees working night or swing shifts, as well as while on TDY by appointment.
“Leadership throughout the command is supporting their workers with accessing CCP services during working hours," Middleton said. “Employees voice often how they feel valued when their supervisor encourages them take care of themselves and take time at work to do that. Employees are encouraged to use available mental health resources—whether they’re in crisis or to prioritize their wellness.”
Confidential help is available through:
Command Counseling Program: 360-340-2745
Civilian Employee Assistance Program (CEAP): 360-476-5673
Veterans/Military Crisis Line & National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Dial 988
Suicide prevention is not just about reacting to crisis—it’s about building a culture where seeking help is seen as a strength.
“We’re not alone in this,” Sayer said. “Sometimes we all just need a little help to carry the load.”