Military Divorce Support & Resources

Overview

If you’ve decided that ending your marriage is the best path forward, the road ahead may seem uncertain. As you move forward, remember that your decisions now may have a lasting effect on your family.

Help for you and your family as you cope with divorce

Divorce can be hard on the whole family. The breakup of a marriage is an emotional and stressful time for parents and for their children who may have trouble adjusting to the many changes in their lives. Non-medical counseling and other sources of support are available.

Confidential non-medical counseling is free for you as well as your children. Youth ages 13-17 are eligible for Military OneSource non-medical counseling by video or in person if a parent is present at the start of each session to give consent. They can also participate in family sessions, individual sessions and sessions for coparents.

For children ages 6-12, family counseling is available with a parent present during the session. Your installation’s Military and Family Life Counseling Program can also support you and children under 18 with written consent from a parent.

Access free and confidential non-medical counseling.

Sesame Street’s Little Children, Big Challenges: Divorce
The Sesame Street Muppets and other tools help young children cope with and understand divorce and aids families in managing the impact of a tough transition.
How to Cope With a Breakup
Learn how to cope with a breakup by taking care of yourself, being honest about your needs and looking ahead.
The Phases of Relationship Breakups
There are common phases most people go through after a breakup. Knowing more about each phase can help you through the hurt.

Maintaining your physical and emotional health during difficult times

Keeping up with a fitness routine, eating a healthy diet and practicing self-care during difficult times can help reduce stress. The article, Being Your Best: How Healthy Are Your Habits? can help you identify harmful habits and ways to overcome them.

Check out these resources for well-being:

Take command of your well-being with free health and wellness coaching from Military OneSource.

Check out these self-care apps developed within the Defense Department, the Department of Veterans Affairs and other partners.

De-stress and relax with these audio relaxation exercises developed especially for the military community.

ARTICLES FOR TAKING CARE OF YOUR PHYSICAL AND EMOTIONAL HEALTH

Take benefits, finances, legal matters and child custody into account

Military benefits, including health benefits, moving costs, housing and more, will be affected by divorce. In addition, your finances and custody of your children will all have to be settled as your marriage ends. The military has legal and financial consultants to help navigate the process.

State law and local procedures largely govern divorce, but there are a few federal statutes and military regulations that may apply. You can access free military legal assistance to make sure you are abiding by the laws and rules. Attorneys at an installation Legal Assistance Office can’t represent their clients in court, but they can provide free information and advice on issues such as: