Health Promotion
On this page:
On this page:
September is Mental Health & Suicide Awareness Month
You’re Not Alone—Support is Always Within Reach
In recognition of Mental Health & Suicide Awareness Month, MCCS Okinawa reaffirms its commitment to supporting the mental and emotional well-being of our service members, families, and civilian community. This observance encourages open dialogue, early intervention, and awareness of the many resources available to help build resilience and prevent suicide.
Throughout September, MCCS Health Promotion will conduct outreach efforts, share educational materials, and engage the community in conversations about mental health, stress management, and suicide prevention.
Mental Fitness Is Mission Readiness
Mental health is an essential part of operational readiness and personal well-being. Service members are often exposed to high-pressure environments, frequent transitions, and unique stressors. Recognizing and addressing mental health concerns early can enhance performance, prevent long-term issues, and save lives.
MCCS Health Promotion will provide tools and strategies for:
- Stress and sleep management
- Identifying signs of emotional distress
- Reducing the stigma around mental health
- Supporting peers and encouraging help-seeking behavior
Helpful Information About Mental Health & Suicide Awareness
- Mental health is health. Conditions like anxiety, depression, and PTSD are common—and treatable. Support and resources are available for all.
- Suicide is preventable. It’s often the result of unrecognized or untreated mental health issues combined with overwhelming stress.
- Know the warning signs. These may include withdrawal, hopelessness, changes in behavior or mood, talking about death or being a burden, and risky or reckless actions.
- Talk and listen. One sincere conversation can be the turning point for someone in distress. Don’t be afraid to ask, “Are you okay?” or “How can I support you?”
- Encourage action. Helping someone connect to professional support can make all the difference.
Confidential Support Is Available
No one has to go through a tough time alone. The following Marine Corps resources are available to provide professional, confidential, and culturally competent support:
- MCCS Health Promotion
- Offers briefings and resources on stress management, emotional well-being, and lifestyle behaviors that support mental health.
- Chaplains
- Available 24/7 for confidential support—faith-based or not. Chaplains offer a safe, judgment-free space to talk.
- Community Counseling Program (CCP)
- Offers short-term, solution-focused counseling for individuals, couples, and families. No referral required.
Community Counseling (Foster)
Address:
Building 439
Behavioral Health
Camp Foster, Okinawa
Phone: (098) 970-2915
DSN: 645-2915
OCONUS Base Phone: 81-98-970-2915
Community Counseling (Hansen)
Address:
Building 2631
Camp Hansen,
Phone: (098) 969-1458
DSN: 623-1458
OCONUS Base Phone: 81-98-969-1458
Alt DSN: (315) 623-1453
- Embedded Preventive Behavioral Health Capability (EPBHC) Specialists
- Located within operational units to offer prevention, early intervention, and coordination of care for behavioral health concerns.
- Substance Abuse Counseling Center (SACC)
- Provides support for substance use concerns and education on coping strategies.
Building 440
Camp Foster, Okinawa
Phone: (098) 970-3009
DSN: 645-3009
OCONUS Base Phone: 81-98-970-3009
- DSTRESS Line – 1-877-476-7734
- Available 24/7, staffed by veteran and active-duty peer counselors. Anonymous and confidential.
MCCS Group Fitness Supports Mental Wellness
In observance of National Yoga Month and Mental Health & Suicide Awareness Month, MCCS Group Fitness will host special yoga classes throughout September. Yoga can be a powerful tool to support mental health, helping reduce stress, promote relaxation, and improve emotional balance. Be sure to check your local fitness center schedule and join us for these rejuvenating sessions open to all SOFA personnel.
Together, We Can Prevent Suicide
Every Marine, Sailor, family member, and civilian plays a role in suicide prevention. Know the signs. Check in with each other. Speak up. Your support could be the lifeline someone needs.
Join Us This September
Stop by MCCS Health Promotion events throughout the month to learn more, pick up resources, and connect with the professionals who are here to help. Be sure to check your local fitness center schedule and join us for these rejuvenating sessions open to anyone with base access. Whether you’re supporting someone else or taking the first step for yourself, you are never alone.
For more information on available services and resources, visit:
MCCS Health Promotion
DSN: 645-3910
Email: mccshealthpromotions@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org
Health Promotion Events
The Semper Fit Health Promotion Program provides health education that encourages people to incre...
Read More
High Intensity Tactical Training
The High Intensity Tactical Training (HITT) program is unique to the Marine Corps. It is a compre...
Read More
Health & Wellness Education
Wellness Educators provide resources that empower you and help you stay on track.
Read More
Group Exercise
MCCS Semper Fit offers a variety of FREE Group Fitness classes across MCB Butler. No matter what ...
Read More