Mental Health Symposium 2026

The Mental Health Symposium, hosted by the National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS), brings together National Guard leaders, Military and Veteran Service Organizations (MSOs/VSOs), Members of Congress, congressional staff, policymakers, VA representatives, state-level support leaders, and community partners. The symposium focuses on the unique mental health challenges facing National Guard members and their families, exploring topics such as balancing military and civilian responsibilities, reintegration following deployments and activations, gaps in access to care, and building stronger, Guard-focused support systems. It includes three panel discussions by experts on lived experience, policy and system gaps, and emerging Guard-focused support models. The goal is to identify solutions, advance policies, and strengthen partnerships to improve readiness and support the long-term health and resilience of Guardsmen. Featured speakers include Reps. Sheri Biggs and Zach Nunn. Panelists represent organizations such as the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States, Department of Veterans Affairs, National Guard Bureau, Maryland J9, Cabana, Life Score, and August Interactive, with Terri Tanielian from RAND serving as a panel moderator.