301st psychological health director offers services to Reservists, families Published Sept. 3, 2014 By Capt Candice Allen 301st Fighter Wing Public Affairs NAVAL AIR STATION FORT WORTH JOINT RESERVE BASE, Texas -- The new director of psychological health joined the 301st Fighter Wing here last month. The 301st Fighter Wing has welcomed its new director of psychological health. Laura Loftin, a licensed clinical social worker, arrived during August's unit training assembly (UTAs) just in time for the wing's sexual assault response and prevention (SAPR) stand down day. "I'm excited to be part of the 301st Fighter Wing family and at the forefront of establishing this new position here," said Loftin, who previously served the Department of the Navy as a clinical and family advocacy counselor in Texas, California and Japan. As the psychological health director, Loftin offers services to help Reservists manage stress and prevail over unique challenges both in and out of the military. Both Reservists and their families can benefit from receiving referrals and consultations to developing strategies on dealing with personal and work challenges. Although she offers consultations, much of her time entails promoting psychological health through community partnerships and visiting Reservists in their work environments. Similar to a physical injury, she likens the loss of a loved one to an injury as well, albeit an internal one. "It's like wearing a cast on your arm. People see it and they take care of you. People make the necessary adjustments because your cast is visible." "But when you're dealing with grief of any kind, you need time to recover. Because it's not a constant reminder to the outside world, many will say 'get over it', but just as someone needs time to heal before the cast can be removed, so does grief need its recovery time." In addition to grief assistance, Loftin also assists Reservists with 'blips on the radar' as she calls it. Blips on the radar may be situational circumstances that would benefit from short-term problem resolution strategies and services: One example might be a family member moving back into the house or taking care of a family member who suffered a recent setback. She says seeking mental health services is a sign of strength, not weakness. "We all need support at one time or another," Loftin said. "Whether it is a trusted friend, family member or trained professional, it is our support systems that help us through challenging times." Services are free and confidential. Loftin is available during the week as well as on UTAs in building 1780, room 106. With many programs available, such as Airman's Guide for Assisting Personnel in Distress and the new psychological health office, you don't have to go through it alone.