MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Stress, problems or confusing situations are a guarantee in life, and individuals often turn to friends, family members or coworkers to talk to about those things and get a sense of reckoning. However, if they do not have anyone to talk to there is always another outlet for them - chaplains.
Chaplains not only work aboard military installations as religious specialists, but also as counselors that serve the entire community, not just service members.
"I have done counseling for military members, family members, children, civilians and Japanese employees," said Navy Lt. Stephen Fisher, station chaplain. "That covers just about everybody."
No matter what kind of issues people have, a chaplain can offer advice, guidance or just someone to hear what is being said.
"The chaplains can help you with issues from marriage problems and thoughts of suicide to tying your shoes or what bubble gum to chew," said Jason, a Marine, who asked his last name not be used. "But some problems don't have answers. Sometimes all you need is a good ear to talk to and get things off your chest."
One common misconception, Jason noted, is that you don't have to be religious to see a chaplain.
"People don't have to be religious necessarily to come over here and get counseling," Fisher said. "It's our job to help people no matter where they come from, and its up to them how much of the spiritual aspect they want to have."
When people go to see the chaplain at his office, the environment is very laid back, Jason explained.
"It's a little tense at first because you don't know what to say or how to react to anything, but once he starts speaking things are really relaxed," he said. "He may be an officer, but once you get to know him he is like your best friend."
One of the benefits of talking with a chaplain, Fisher noted, is that confidentiality is key.
For many, the confidentiality of the chaplain has been an outlet during times when they had questions they just could not answer for themselves.
"The confidentiality is great," Jason explained. "It's nice to know you can go to someone without any strings attached and talk to them about anything in the world. Also, you don't have to worry about anyone else hearing about what you have discussed with him; your fears, your hopes and problems."
Chaplains can help individuals find their own answers without telling them what to do, according to Jason.
Although, the normal way individuals meet with a chaplain is by appointment, on the spot counseling is also done when the chaplains tour work sections of the station.
There are five chaplains aboard the station to perform counseling services, but their job is not always finished at the end of the workday.
"We are available 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week," Fisher said.
Whether chaplains work day or night, counseling can play an important role in the life of anyone dealing with a difficult decision.
"Sometimes you just run into things that you just don't know how to handle," Fisher said. "It is vitally important to vent. We were not meant to live life alone."