Safe Helpline mobile app goes live

  • Published
  • Department of Defense Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense Public Affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The Laughlin Sexual Assault Response Center is getting the word out about a new mobile application designed to provide another avenue for victims of sexual assault to seek the support they need.

The new Department of Defense Safe Helpline Mobile Application offers service members transitioning to civilian life access to critical resources that assist in managing the short and long-term effects of sexual assault.

"Although we have a 24-hour-a-day, seven-days-a-week telephone hotline, some people prefer being able to access help through social media," said Sabrina Pena, 47th Flying Training Wing SARC coordinator. "This app offers live, one-on-one anonymous online chat sessions with trained sexual assault professionals who have extensive training in not only sexual assault, but also the unique aspects of military sexual assault."

The app contains the option for users to record their current emotional state and create tailored self-care plans to address sadness, hopelessness and disconnection. These self-care plans include suggested resources and exercises, and can be stored for future reference. This includes a list of breathing, stretching and visualization techniques that can reduce anxiety, depression and symptoms of post-traumatic stress.

"Victims want to choose when and where they get support so we are using technology to provide them as many options as possible," said DOD Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office Director Maj. Gen. Gary S. Patton. "This new app tied into the Safe Helpline is another tool to provide support to military victims of sexual assault."

Users can connect with live sexual assault response professionals by phone or anonymous online chat from their mobile devices for support. Users can also navigate resources such as disability assistance, medical benefits, housing help and employment assistance, or search for resources near their base or installation. The safe helpline mobile app is for short-term self-care and is not to be used as a substitute for professional medical advice or a mental health treatment plan.

The DOD Safe Helpline Mobile App is free and available for download from the Apple and Android app stores.

"We know through surveys related to sexual assault that the number of cases reported in the Air Force is far less than what is actually occurring," said Pena. "This means many more people are not reporting. My hope is that this app will appeal to some of these people. We know that those who talk to someone soon after being sexually assaulted are less likely to have negative long term mental health symptoms. It is important for people to know they are not alone in their journey."

For more information contact the Laughlin SARC office at 298-7272.