AFI44-172_AFRCSUP — Mental Health

AFI44-172_AFRCSUP governs Air Force mental health services, confidentiality, command communication, and Limited Privilege Suicide Prevention.

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  • Publication number: AFI44-172_AFRCSUP
  • Title: MENTAL HEALTH
  • Date: 2022-04-13

View AFI44-172_AFRCSUP on armypubs.army.mil


The publication addresses mental health assessment and treatment for USAF personnel and beneficiaries with mental health concerns. It establishes confidentiality rules, communication conditions between mental health providers and commanders or supervisors, and the scope of the Limited Privilege Suicide Prevention Program.

Applies to: It applies to all AFRC units, it does not apply to RegAF, Space Force, or the Air National Guard.

Topics covered

  • Mental health services
  • Confidentiality rules
  • Command notification
  • Sexual assault reporting
  • Suicide prevention
  • Substance abuse treatment
  • Duty-limiting conditions

Questions and answers

When must providers report suspected child abuse or neglect?

Providers must report suspected child abuse or neglect to military agencies and/or local child protective authorities. (paragraph 102-484)

What must providers report about threats to crimes or fraud?

Providers must report any threat to commit crimes or fraud. (paragraph 2)

When must providers take steps to protect individuals from harm?

Providers must take steps to protect individuals from harm when they have reason to believe there is a serious threat to the life or safety of the individual or others. (paragraph 3)

Where must providers report sexual assaults?

Providers are required to report all sexual assaults to the Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC). (paragraph 5)

What qualifies as a serious risk of harm to a military mission?

The provider believes there is a serious risk of harm to a specific military operational mission. Such serious risk may include disorders that significantly impact impulsivity, insight, reliability, and judgment. (paragraph 3)

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