SECNAV Del Toro Leads Transformative 2nd Forum on Integrated Resilience and Mental Health

WASHINGTON – Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro hosted the Department of the Navy’s second Integrated Resilience and Mental Health Forum on September 25. The event provided a platform for meaningful discussion among Department of Navy stakeholders, aiming to bring attention to ongoing and new Navy and Marine Corps initiatives related to mental health and resilience.

“As evidence of the importance and impact of this forum, last time we met, we discussed our dire need for more mental health providers across the Fleet and the Force,” said Secretary Del Toro. “It’s important to break down the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. It’s a recognition that we all need support from time to time.”

More than 15 senior leaders and civilians from the Department attended, including Vice Chief of Naval Operations, Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Manpower and Reserve Affairs Franklin Parker, Mr. Montel Williams, Dr. Matthew Miller Executive Director, Office of Suicide Prevention, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and RADM Rick Freedman, Navy Deputy Surgeon General.

“I’m glad you were able to make it today, and I am incredibly excited to hear about your work with The Research and Recognition Project and about the Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories,” said Secretary Del Toro. He elaborated on the stressors of combat leading to various mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD, impacting the ability of personnel to function effectively.

Secretary Del Toro champions mental health and resiliency initiatives and aims to build on the significant work already happening among Sailors and Marines. These forums are designed to assess and strengthen the state of Navy and Marine Corps mental health programs, identify gaps, and enhance collaboration on these topics.

The forum is designed to create an enduring environment of openness and collaboration, ensuring continuity of effort across Navy and Marine Corps programs. “The demands of modern military service are unprecedented, requiring our Sailors and Marines to operate in complex, high-stress environments,” Del Toro noted. “As leaders, it is our responsibility to ensure that our personnel are equipped to meet these challenges and thrive in the face of adversity.”

Future forums plan to include input from external partners across other military services, government agencies, academia, and the nonprofit sector. The forums will be held biannually, with the next one scheduled for spring.

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