Strategic plan to address mental health of members of the Armed Forces

(a) Plan The Secretary of Defense, in coordination with each Secretary of a military department and the Director of the Defense Health Agency, shall develop a strategic plan to address suicide by members of the Armed Forces and the mental health services provided to members. (b) Elements The plan under subsection (a) shall include the following: (1) Developing and enforcing uniform protocols with respect to— (A) the regulations prescribed for the self-initiated referral process under section 1090b(e) of title 10, United States Code, for members of the Armed Forces seeking mental health evaluations; and (B) the provision of information, including through workplace posters, flyers, and advertisements, to ensure members are aware of such referral process. (2) Standardized mental health training for members of the Armed Forces, including— (A) specialized training for commanders, senior enlisted leaders, and medical personnel on identifying and addressing mental health concerns; (B) the development of a certification process based on completion of training with documented proof of compliance; (C) how to respond when a member initiates the referral process under section 1090b(e) of title 10, United States Code; and (D) how to recognize signs indicating mental health distress.