Support for Military
Quick guidance & answers
Just as physical fitness is a central part of military life, good mental health is as important for your well-being, and military and family readiness.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, more than one in five American adults live with a mental illness. Many of these conditions are common and treatable, yet many people suffer in silence because of the stigma and shame. There are lots of resources available to help anyone who is struggling with mental health challenges.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact the Military Crisis Line at 988, then press 1, or access online chat by texting 838255.
By identifying the first signs of a mental health disorder in yourself or in a loved one, you could prevent a mild condition from worsening.
Adults and teens who are suffering from a mental health disorder may display any number of the following signs:
Reaching out is the first step toward recovery.
If you are wondering if you have symptoms of a specific mental health condition, you can complete a brief screening tool from the Department of Veterans Affairs and get instant feedback. These assessments for PTSD, depression, substance abuse and alcohol use can help you determine if you should seek further evaluation by your physician or a mental health professional.
TRICARE, the health care program for military members and their families, may provide coverage for medically necessary mental health services. Use the TRICARE Military Treatment Facility Locator to find a military treatment center near you.
Confidential counseling is free for service members and their families through both the Military and Family Life Counseling Program and Military OneSource. MFLC and Military OneSource counselors can help with everyday challenges related to military life, including relocation adjustment, separation, reintegration, relationship issues, parenting skills, communication, anger management, grief, stress, deployment, coping skills, interpersonal skills and occupational or academic issues.
This free, confidential program offers specialized coaching and assistance to service members, veterans and retirees who need access to mental health care during times of transition, such as returning from deployment, relocating to another assignment, or preparing to leave military service.
Children and youth may display different signs of mental health issues than those of adults. Here are some signs to watch out for.
Many symptoms in adolescents may be similar to those in adults, but you may notice other characteristics, including:
Young children and preadolescents may display some of the following characteristics:
The Defense Department provides free and confidential counseling for children and youth. Child and youth behavioral military and family life counselors understand the issues military children face and can work on self-esteem issues, communication and relationships at home and school, life skills and behavioral issues. Sessions are available for children under 18 with parental consent. Children and youth ages 6-17 are also eligible for confidential counseling through Military OneSource. A parent must attend each session for children ages 12 and younger. Youth ages 13-17 must have a parent available at the start of each counseling session to give consent. For help with more serious issues, contact TRICARE or your doctor.
Getting help for a mental health disorder is a sign of strength. DOD has taken measures to eliminate negative stereotypes about psychological health problems and any impact to your career for seeking treatment. For example, an applicant for a security clearance cannot be denied based solely on past treatment for a mental health disorder.
Learn the ways the DOD protects your privacy when applying for a security clearance.
Learn about military bases worldwide. Get installation overviews, check-in procedures, housing, neighborhood information, contacts for programs and services, photos and more.
