May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and we use this time to spotlight the importance of mental well-being and encourage open conversations around mental health. For government employees, who often shoulder high-stress responsibilities in demanding roles, prioritizing mental health is essential.
At GEA, we recognize that navigating the mental health landscape can be overwhelming. Whether you're experiencing burnout, managing ongoing anxiety, or simply striving to maintain balance, knowing where to turn can make all the difference. This guide is designed to help you make sense of the mental health resources available to you as a government employee—and to remind you that support is always within reach.
1. Utilize Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
Most government agencies offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - a confidential, employer-sponsored service that provides free support for mental health, family issues, financial stress, and more. EAP services are confidential and not part of your personnel record, so you can seek help without fear of stigma.
What EAPs typically offer:
- Free short-term counseling sessions
- Crisis intervention and mental health assessments
- Referrals to licensed mental health professionals
- Work-life resources, such as legal or financial counseling
2. Maximize Your TRICARE Benefits
If you’re a current or retired military employee or federal civilian who qualifies for TRICARE, you already have access to a strong network of mental health resources. TRICARE covers the following:
- Outpatient and inpatient mental health services
- Therapy and counseling (individual, group, and family)
- Substance use disorder treatment
- Psychiatric evaluations and medication management
- Telehealth sessions through TRICARE-authorized providers
TRICARE plans do require cost-shares and deductibles, which can add up over time—especially if you need regular care. That’s where the TRICARE Supplement Insurance Plan offered through GEA can help.
What the TRICARE Supplement Insurance Plan covers:
- Reimbursement for out-of-pocket costs like copayments, cost-shares, and deductibles
- Additional financial protection for ongoing or intensive treatment
- Freedom to see any TRICARE-authorized provider without referral
This supplemental insurance plan can give you peace of mind and help reduce the financial burden of prioritizing your mental health. To learn more or enroll, visit GEAUSA.org/TRICARE or contact your benefits representative at 800-446-7600.
3. Utilize Telehealth and Online Therapy Services
There has been a massive expansion of teletherapy options over the last few years. Many insurance providers now cover virtual mental health services. This means you can access therapy sessions from the comfort of your home. Look for providers like these:
- Talkspace
- BetterHelp
- MDLIVE
- Amwell
Be sure to confirm whether these are covered by your insurance plan before scheduling.
4. Look Into Agency-Specific Mental Health Initiatives
Some agencies have gone above and beyond to support their employees’ well-being, offering wellness apps, resilience training, peer support groups, and mental health awareness campaigns.
Ask your HR representative or check your agency’s intranet to see what’s available. Don’t underestimate the value of in-house initiatives—they’re often underused and easily accessible.
5. Know Your Leave Options
Mental health struggles may sometimes require time away from work. Government employees may be eligible for the following:
- Sick leave for mental health treatment
- Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) protections
- Administrative leave in specific circumstances
Check with your agency’s HR department or union representative to understand your rights and how to apply for leave discreetly and effectively.
6. Talk to Someone You Trust
If you’re not sure where to begin, talking with a union leader, supervisor, or trusted co-worker can be a helpful first step. Sometimes just sharing what you’re going through can open the door to support and solutions you might not have considered.
7. Support Others
Being mindful of your coworkers’ mental health can create a culture of support and compassion. If someone seems down or overwhelmed, a simple “Are you okay?” might be more powerful than you think.
You're Not Alone
Mental health is health. As a government employee, you serve your community every day—make sure you're taking care of yourself, too. Whether you're struggling or simply trying to stay grounded, there are resources to support you every step of the way.
For more updates, tools, and advocacy on issues that matter to government employees, stay connected with us at GEAUSA.org.
