Limited Privilege Suicide Prevention
(LPSP) Program
Legal Problems May be a Risk for Suicide. It is stressful to be informed that you are under investigation for a possible UCMJ violation. The consequences can be severe: damage to or loss of career, loss of freedom, personal shame or guilt.
Under these conditions, you may be at increased risk to your personal safety and can benefit from mental health care. Often, Airmen in this situation are concerned that what they say will be used against them.
What is the LPSP program? The LPSP program is for Airmen who have been informed (verbally or in writing) that they are under investigation for possible UCMJ violations. Once under investigation, the Airmen will automatically have the protections of the LPSP when speaking to their mental health provider. This is a 2022 policy change. The LPSP protects what the Airman says in treatment with the mental health provider. These statements cannot be used in a current or future trial or to characterize discharge status. Exceptions to this protection:
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Confidential information may be used at trial if the Airman or his/her defense counsel introduces their mental health history.
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Confidential information may be provided to other appropriate providers, such as VA or the mental health provider at a detention center, as necessary for treatment.
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Medical evidence obtained prior to entry in the program
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Evidence derived independent of the LPSP program
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Consult with your area defense counsel and JA to answer specific questions about the LPSP.
Reduced Risk. The LPSP program provides increased confidentiality to Air men who may be at risk for suicide following verbal or written notification that they are under investigation for possible UCMJ violations.
What does limited confidentiality mean? It means that while enrolled in the program what you say to your provider cannot be used against you in court proceedings unless you bring it up. For a complete understanding of confidentiality, speak with your mental health provider and the ADC. We encourage you to work with the ADC or any defense counsel you have retained as well as your mental health provider to fully understand your rights, as well as, the benefits and limitations of the LPSP.