Editor’s note: This article is part of a series dedicated to highlighting mental health resources on base. Look for related articles in the weeks to come.
When life gets busy, it is easy for stress or overwhelming feelings to build up.
However, finding the space and time during a busy week to take a moment and decompress can be beneficial.
Here are a few places on base that may be good for a mental break:
The Gym
Tinker AFB has three gyms open to those with access to the base, the Gerrity Fitness Center in Bldg. 6004, the Annex Fitness Center in Bldg. 216 and a fitness center in Bldg. 3705.
Each has different hours, but offer a variety of equipment and great ways to blow off steam. They also offer classes throughout the day, including yoga, pilates and bootcamp, and have personal trainers available by appointment.
For more information, visit https://tinkerliving.com/fitness/.
The Tinker Library
Located in Bldg. 5702, the Tinker Library is a quiet place where base community members can escape and clear their heads throughout the day.
As well as access to books, audio books, DVDs, CDs and computers, the library has areas with comfortable chairs.
The library is open Tuesday-Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit the library website: https://tinkerliving.com/library/.
Nature
Getting outdoors can be a great way to clear your mind. The Tinker AFB nature and exercise trails include miles of paths around the dorms, neighborhoods and more. Additionally, ponds like at Fam Camp provide a quiet place to watch the fish.
When using the trails, make sure to drink plenty of water and cross roads carefully.
For more information about base hiking trails, visit: https://tinkerliving.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Trails-Handout-2015.pdf.
Coffee Shops
Several areas around base offer a place to take a coffee break and recharge.
Starbucks in the Base Exchange and the Java Shop in Bldg. 9001 are just a couple of the places to grab some caffeine and take a break during the week.
Golf Course
The Tinker AFB Golf Club offers an 18-hole championship golf course, a putting and chipping green, pitching green and a driving range.
For more information about the golf course, visit: https://tinkerliving.com/golf/.
Resource Spotlight
Here are just a few of many resources available that provide counseling or mental health services at Tinker Air Force Base:
Civilian Employee Assistance Program:
○ Contact during Duty Hours: Bob Magar at 734-6691 or Stephanie Lewis at 734-6687. After duty hours call 800-222-0364.
○ Duty Hours: 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
○ For more information, visit: https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/1550534/employee-assistance-program-provides-range-of-assistance-for-civilian-employees/
Military & Family Life Consultant:
○ Contact: 532-6311
○ Duty Hours: 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
○ For more information, visit: https://www.tinker.af.mil/Links/Tinker-Living/Airman-and-Family-Readiness-Center/Military-Family-Life-Consultant/
Military One Source:
○ Contact: 800-342-9647
○ Duty Hours: 24/7
○ For more information, visit: https://www.militaryonesource.mil/web/mos/confidential-help