Lewiston commission: Army expert identifies gaps in resources [Video]

In an hourlong online meeting, Col. Mark Ochoa answered commission members’ questions regarding what steps are followed and potential pitfalls regarding how soldiers are checked on before and after they are recommended for mental health treatment. 

In his testimony, Ochoa explained that while family members or other personnel can express their concern about the mental health of an individual, a commander is the position that has control over starting the process for an evaluation or to require treatment. 

“[Commanders] really have the ability to reach out and get them help,” Ochoa said. “And that’s the message I want to get out to the team.”

At times, treatment can be found through the U.S. Army Reserve’s Psychological Health Program (PHP), which can connect soldiers with local resources based off of …