Civilian wellness a command priority at Edwards

  • Published
  • By Kenji Thuloweit
  • 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Commanders and directors must be in tune with the health and wellness needs of Edward's civilian workforce, and know where to refer them for help.

That statement from Brig. Gen. Robert C. Nolan II, Air Force Flight Test Center commander, echoes an Air Force Materiel Command call to help the command's predominantly civilian workforce find available resources to improve their health and welfare when needed.

In a recently commissioned study with the Rand Corporation, AFMC found civilian employees often are unaware of available health and wellness resources. In response to the findings AFMC leadership took action to ensure employees know about the resources, and that commanders and directors better facilitate the use of them.

"Most people are conscientious about doing a good job every day despite the challenges they face both on and off the job," said General Nolan, "and we know the stress of work, when compounded with other difficulties, can sometimes push people to the edge."

"If our civilians are unaware of the health and wellness programs, and the services available to help them in times of personal crisis, then my goal is to remedy that immediately," he said.

To facilitate those needing assistance a directory of support agencies at Edwards (adjacent to this article) will run weekly in the Desert Eagle, and is available on the Edwards website at www.edwards.af.mil. The listing provides specific contacts for Air Force civilian employees to gain access to assistance with personal, family or work-stress issues.

General Nolan asks all Edwards civilians to contact their immediate supervisors, and use the support directory, when they need help.

"If you or your coworkers are experiencing emotional, mental or spiritual distress of some sort here at Edwards, help is available. We all face challenges, but we don't have to face them alone," General Nolan said.

For the directory, click here.