Soldiers should know it is “100% OK to seek behavioral health,” Sergeant Major of the Army Michael Grinston said this week at the Association of the U.S. Army’s convention in D.C., as reported by Military.com. Grinston said he had sought therapy services as recently as this summer.

Army Secretary Christine Wormuth said “taking advantage of behavioral health resources, that is actually a sign of strength, not a vulnerability. It’s helping yourself solve a problem, and there’s nothing to be ashamed about when it comes to doing that.”

The service leaders said they are increasing the number of behavioral health providers.

“Just like heart disease, if you treat [mental health conditions] early on, when things are just starting to develop, I think we can save a lot more lives,” said Army Chief of Staff Gen. James McConville.

Army photo by Sgt. Casey Hustin, 17th Field Artillery Brigade