PETERSON SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. -- In recent years, the Department of the Air Force recognized the critical need for a robust framework to address the well-being of its personnel, which led to the establishment of the Air Force Integrated Primary Prevention Workforce.
The IPPW is a program designed to proactively manage and prevent issues affecting Airmen, Guardians and their families, such as mental health challenges, substance abuse and domestic violence.
“The Air Force and Space Force is a world of constant change and new challenges, so the IPPW aims to build foundational coping mechanisms in our Airmen and Guardians so that they can better navigate these changes,” said Melissa Dashner, Space Base Delta 1 IPPW prevention coordination specialist.
The primary objective of the IPPW is to foster a culture of prevention that enhances the overall health and readiness of service members. The staff uses a holistic approach, integrating various resources and services to address the multifaceted nature of personnel challenges.
“Learning or re-learning foundational skills, like being able to process your feelings or communicating what you need, can help whether you are struggling with family, workplace relationships, or navigating trauma,” Dashner said. “So, we try to reach our community through a variety of different ways.”
The IPPW approach includes several key components such as a training and education, outreach, and crisis response.
“IPPW is one of the briefers at Right Start, which all new employees and service members here at Peterson go through,” Dashner said. “Furthermore, we lead the community action team which responds to personal crisis in a comprehensive way, utilizing several support agencies on base from diverse backgrounds, including mental health professionals, social workers, and community service providers. Lastly, our outreach program will target specific issues as we look at data and what is affecting our community.”
By shifting the focus from reaction to prevention, the IPPW is helping to create a healthier, more resilient force. According to the DoD Prevention Plan of Action 2.0, the program plans to continue refining and expanding the IPPW's initiatives. This includes enhancing partnerships with external organizations and integrating emerging technologies to improve access to support services. Additionally, as the landscape of military service evolves, the IPPW will remain vigilant in addressing new challenges, ensuring that Airmen and their families have the tools and support they need to thrive.
To check out some of the resources available, please visit: https://www.petersonschriever.spaceforce.mil/About-Us/Resources/ or call their office at 719-554-7545.