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Health & Wellness

Good health is critical to military and family readiness, allowing service members to perform their responsibilities at work and at home to the best of their abilities. While Military OneSource does not provide direct health care services, it provides resources that can help you maintain good health. Check out our fresh, practical content on healthy living and more.

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Featured Content

Health and Wellness Coaching for Teens

Apr 6, 2020
1 Min Read

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The Importance of Practicing Self-Care During Times of Stress

Apr 29, 2020
4 Min Read

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How to Deal with Stress as a Caregiver

May 14, 2020
4 Min Read

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Latest Content

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Helping Family Members With Special Needs Meet Their Fitness Goals

July 10, 2020 @ 8:35 PM | 2 Min Read | 19449 Views

Getting in shape, eating better and exercising regularly helps us lower stress, improve self-esteem and our general well-being. Individuals with special needs often share in these same goals and can achieve their health and fitness goals with the help of an adaptive fitness and nutrition plan.
Prescription pill bottles

Military Policy and Treatment for Substance Use

May 18, 2020 @ 1:18 PM | 4 Min Read | 24832 Views

To prevent and identify drug use among military personnel, Department of Defense policy requires service members to participate in random urinalysis testing. For those struggling with addiction, the military offers support. Here are the basics of its drug prevention program:
An open alcohol and drug abuse self assessment workbook.

Recovering from a Drug or Alcohol Use Problem

May 18, 2020 @ 1:16 PM | 3 Min Read | 19747 Views

If you have a problem with drugs or alcohol, change is possible. It typically takes treatment, support from others, commitment and hard work.
Service member’s hand holding a beer.

Understanding and Identifying Substance Use Disorders

May 18, 2020 @ 1:10 PM | 7 Min Read | 26225 Views

Understanding and identifying a substance use problem, whether your own or that of a friend, can be the beginning of a better life. Learn how to identify the warning signs of substance use disorders and where to get help.
Caregiver support group cuts a cake at a monthly forum.

How to Deal with Stress as a Caregiver

May 14, 2020 @ 2:14 PM | 4 Min Read | 28961 Views

It’s hard to avoid stress when you’re caring for a loved one with a serious injury or an ongoing wound or illness. Caregiving is an important job that can be extremely demanding.
Boys eating broccoli

How to Stay Healthy During the COVID-19 Quarantine

May 14, 2020 @ 11:59 AM | 7 Min Read | 7433 Views

It’s normal to cut corners when engaging in everyday activities, especially when you’re comfortable with the task. But to avoid putting you and your family at risk during the coronavirus disease 2019 quarantine, examine your habits to make sure you’re not cutting corners on your health.
man exercising at home

Follow These Stress Relief Tips

May 14, 2020 @ 11:38 AM | 4 Min Read | 76209 Views

Some stress in your life is healthy. It can motivate you to change behavior and develop skills, especially in military life.
Invictus Games Cycling

The Transformative Power of Adaptive Sports Programs

April 8, 2020 @ 6:34 PM | 5 Min Read | 35923 Views

For many years, individuals with disabilities have been using sports as a therapeutic tool to overcome serious injury or illness and as a means of recovery.
service members at pharmacy table

Medication Disposal Tips for Your Old or Unused Medicines

April 8, 2020 @ 6:24 PM | 2 Min Read | 4450 Views

Getting rid of old or unused medicine is a tricky issue. Throwing it in the trash might pose a risk to a child or pet that finds it, and flushing it might hurt the environment. Keeping it "just in case" or for another time isn't safe either, as expired meds don't work as well and can even be harmful. Keep your family and community safe by cleaning out your medicine cabinet periodically. Take the following steps.
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TRICARE 101: Military Health Benefits Basics in Five Minutes or Less

April 8, 2020 @ 5:54 PM | 8 Min Read | 21486 Views

TRICARE is the health care program for almost 9.4 million service members, retirees and their families around the world that provides military health benefits and health care support to ensure mission readiness
Health specialist points out areas of magnetic activity in a brain displayed on a monitor.

When Your Spouse Has a Traumatic Brain Injury

April 8, 2020 @ 5:52 PM | 4 Min Read | 32139 Views

As a spouse of a service member who has suffered a traumatic brain injury, or TBI, you may be experiencing a range of emotions. It is important to allow yourself to feel every emotion that surfaces and attend to your own needs.
A Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Team member stands on first base.

Wounded Warrior Programs

April 8, 2020 @ 5:51 PM | 3 Min Read | 25214 Views

The military has specialized wounded warrior programs designed to help the severely ill and injured transition back to duty or civilian life. Each service branch has its own program.
service member talking to disabled veteran

Understanding the Americans With Disabilities Act

April 7, 2020 @ 1:14 PM | 4 Min Read | 31985 Views

The Americans with Disabilities Act has been protecting disabled people's civil rights for more than 25 years, making sure they have the same opportunities as everyone else to be part of everyday American life.
The Road Ahead

The Road Ahead at Home and Work

April 7, 2020 @ 1:09 PM | 4 Min Read | 28586 Views

As a wounded warrior, you deserve the easiest possible transition from military to civilian life. A severe injury does change the way you live your life, but it does not have to change the course of your career or the quality of your home life.
Uniformed service member points out ways to combat stress listed on a poster.

Understanding and Dealing With Combat Stress and PTSD

April 7, 2020 @ 1:02 PM | 3 Min Read | 36599 Views

Combat stress, also known as battle fatigue, is a common response to the mental and emotional strain when confronted with dangerous and traumatic situations. It is a natural reaction to the wear and tear of the body and mind after extended and demanding operations.
Service member hides face in their hands

Recognizing the Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

April 7, 2020 @ 1:00 PM | 4 Min Read | 36578 Views

People who live through a traumatic event sometimes suffer its effects long after the real danger has passed. This is called post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD.
Veteran marches to honor those who suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or died by suicide.

Helping You and Your Family Survive a Suicide

April 7, 2020 @ 12:56 PM | 5 Min Read | 28634 Views

Surviving the suicide of a loved one is different than a “natural death” and can be especially traumatic. It is common for survivors to feel that they didn’t do enough to save their loved one, creating feelings of what is called “survivor guilt.”
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Why It’s Important to Know Your Family’s Medical History

April 6, 2020 @ 6:44 PM | 2 Min Read | 23346 Views

Genes impact more than just eye color and height. They also play a big part in your health. The health of your family members and their medical conditions, past and present, could have a big impact on you, and it's worth finding out as much as you can.
Mom and daughter looking at phone

Health and Wellness Coaching for Teens

April 6, 2020 @ 2:28 PM | 1 Min Read | 950 Views

Help your teen get on track to good health and fitness. Health and wellness coaching is available for those 13 and older.
Child helping mother do sit-ups

Health and Wellness Coaching Consultation

April 6, 2020 @ 2:26 PM | 2 Min Read | 690 Views

Disruptions to normal routines can derail healthy habits. Free health and wellness coaching can get you back on track.
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How to Get Home Delivery for Medications Under TRICARE

April 6, 2020 @ 2:18 PM | 3 Min Read | 6041 Views

As part of its COVID-19 guidance, the federal government recommends having a supply of all necessary medications on hand. For members of the military community, TRICARE offers a convenient option of getting a 90-day supply of your prescriptions through TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery.
Getting Help for Combat Stress

Getting Help for Combat Stress

December 21, 2019 @ 4:24 PM | 3 Min Read | 40097 Views

Learning to recognize the signs of combat stress in yourself, another service member or a family member who has returned from a war zone can help you call on the right resources to begin the healing process.
Servicemember reaching out and helping up another.

Suicide Awareness

December 21, 2019 @ 4:11 PM | 3 Min Read | 31823 Views

Suicide is a serious concern in military communities; service members and their families deal with a great number of stressors. You can help reduce the risk of suicide. Pay attention to those around you — or reach out to talk to someone if you feel you can’t cope.
Counselor helps a service member struggling with depression.

When a Service Member May Be at Risk for Suicide

December 21, 2019 @ 4:11 PM | 4 Min Read | 20140 Views

Suicide prevention is a serious issue for service members and their loved ones. Stress that never seems to let up can affect anyone, and some service members may be at greater risk for suicide than others.
Service member talks with high school teens

Talking to Your Military Teen About Substance Use

December 21, 2019 @ 3:59 PM | 3 Min Read | 12773 Views

With the challenges of long family separations and permanent change of station moves, military teens may be more vulnerable to drug and alcohol use. Certain common challenges like a need for social acceptance at a new school may prompt teens to act before considering consequences.
Psychologist listens to a patient.

Does Receiving Psychological Health Care Affect Security Clearance?

December 21, 2019 @ 3:57 PM | 3 Min Read | 49033 Views

The Department of Defense wants you to know that getting help for a psychological issue is a sign of strength. Speaking up can be a sign of good judgment, responsible behavior and a commitment to performance.
airman holds out goggles to simulate drunken disorientation

TRICARE’s Options for Opioid Treatment

December 21, 2019 @ 3:57 PM | 3 Min Read | 5315 Views

TRICARE recently expanded mental health and substance use disorder, or SUD, services, adding outpatient programs and expanding options for opioid treatment. The benefits now provide a full range of mental health and substance use disorder treatments.
Mental health specialist speaks with a service member in her office.

Mental Health Matters in the Military

December 21, 2019 @ 3:57 PM | 4 Min Read | 53839 Views

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. Mental health challenges and issues shouldn't be ignored or hidden. There are lots of resources available to help anyone suffering get diagnosed and get better.
Service member paints to help with PTSD

How to Cope With a Traumatic Event

December 21, 2019 @ 3:57 PM | 5 Min Read | 32151 Views

A violent act, catastrophic accident, or sudden loss can leave you feeling anxious and fearful, which are normal reactions. But if anxiety and fears are taking over your or a loved one's life, you may want to consider professional help.
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Children, Schools and Families Initiatives, Promising Practices, Tools and Resources

December 20, 2019 @ 8:51 PM | 3 Min Read | 26378 Views

A fit and healthy fighting force is the foundation of a strong national defense. In the United States, poor nutrition, obesity, lack of physical fitness and tobacco use pose a growing threat to the military’s four “Rs”: recruitment, retention, readiness and resilience.
Couple Smiling

Keeping Joy in the Holidays

December 20, 2019 @ 8:50 PM | 1 Min Read | 6293 Views

The holiday season is a time to celebrate and enjoy family and festivities. While family gatherings, gift shopping and social activities can be fun, they also might leave you feeling overwhelmed. We would like to help make this holiday season peaceful and joyful for you and your family.
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Self-Injury Explained

December 20, 2019 @ 8:50 PM | 3 Min Read | 28612 Views

Self-injury is deliberate harm inflicted on a person's own body. It may include cutting or burning the skin, preventing wounds from healing, slamming fists or other parts of the body against hard objects or pulling out hair.
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8 Rewards of Tobacco-Free Living

December 20, 2019 @ 8:49 PM | 2 Min Read | 54841 Views

The benefits of quitting tobacco are limitless and start immediately. Your health and your finances are just the beginning of what you’ll improve for both yourself and your family. Here are eight of the many benefits you’ll experience with a new, tobacco-free life.
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Practicing Good Nutrition Boosts Personal Performance

December 20, 2019 @ 8:48 PM | 4 Min Read | 47735 Views

Military members need to stay in shape so that they can perform their duties. One of the best ways to build strength and stamina is by eating nutritious foods. Here are some tips on how to start.
Family having a picnic

5210 Healthy Military Children

December 20, 2019 @ 8:48 PM | 4 Min Read | 30912 Views

If you want a winning combination for healthy kids, try 5210. Get them started on a healthy path with an easy-to-remember plan.
Wife’s hand on husbands back.

Becoming a Caregiver for a Wounded, Ill or Injured Service Member

November 13, 2019 @ 12:52 PM | 4 Min Read | 20806 Views

When your spouse or loved one suffers a severe injury or debilitating illness, it can feel as if your entire world has been turned upside down — and the goals and plans you had for yourself, your marriage and your family go on hold.
Mom and baby workout

Easy Leg Workouts for MilParents: Exercising With Your Child

December 31, 2018 @ 12:52 PM | 7 Min Read | 14535 Views

Exercise is important to your overall health and a big part of being in the military. But anyone who has children knows it’s hard to squeeze in time to exercise when the kids are around. Here’s an idea: why not include your kids in your home workout?
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Giving Your Child a Happy, Healthy Start

December 27, 2018 @ 9:27 AM | 5 Min Read | 37112 Views

Every mother and father wants to raise a happy, healthy, well-adjusted child. Service members are no exception. Since most healthy behaviors are developed in childhood, you can help your child get off to a good start with good habits, actions and choices to promote health and happiness.
Service member writing in book

How to Deal With Combat Stress

December 12, 2018 @ 2:36 PM | 4 Min Read | 27145 Views

Combat stress reactions are natural responses of the body and brain to the extreme stress of combat. Sometimes a threat is so prolonged or intense that it causes a "stress injury."
Dad playing baseball in backyard with kids

Make Active Living a Priority to Improve Family Fitness

December 12, 2018 @ 2:36 PM | 3 Min Read | 19794 Views

Staying fit is part of the military lifestyle, but that doesn't mean it's easy. If you’re struggling to embrace an active lifestyle, remember there are lots of choices out there.
Former service member and spouse spend time together outside.

Caregiving When Your Spouse Has a Combat Stress Injury

December 12, 2018 @ 2:36 PM | 6 Min Read | 19990 Views

When your spouse returns from a deployment with a combat stress injury or post-traumatic stress disorder, it can affect everyone in the household. To do your best for your spouse — and for you — learn more about combat stress, what resources are available, and most importantly, how to care for yourself.
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7 Postpartum Fitness Tips for New Moms

November 28, 2018 @ 7:05 PM | 3 Min Read | 27503 Views

Congratulations on the new addition to your family and welcome to motherhood. Your body has been through many changes and you may not feel comfortable in your postpartum body. That's perfectly normal.
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How to Be Healthy Through the Holidays

November 28, 2018 @ 7:05 PM | 3 Min Read | 53227 Views

Don’t let the hectic holiday schedule and party foods derail your health, nutrition and fitness goals. Sure, you want to have fun, but not so much you regret it come New Year’s Day.
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Fitness Classes With Morale, Welfare and Recreation

November 28, 2018 @ 7:05 PM | 2 Min Read | 25736 Views

From high-intensity aerobic workouts to relaxing yoga, your installation's fitness center has classes for everyone, at every level. Classes are available for little or no cost to anyone who can access the gym through the Morale, Welfare and Recreation program.
A hand puts a medical record back on the shelf.

The Military Medical Evaluation Process

November 9, 2018 @ 2:21 PM | 3 Min Read | 25702 Views

The Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs have simplified and streamlined the medical evaluation process for service members and their families through the creation of the Integrated Disability Evaluation System. Additionally, your Physical Evaluation Board liaison officer acts as your main intermediary during the process, providing valuable guidance and serving as a patient advocate.
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Preventing Injuries in Military Training

November 9, 2018 @ 1:54 PM | 3 Min Read | 23647 Views

As a service member, you can push yourself hard to reach your peak fitness goals. However, ramping up your workout too much could lead to injuries that can affect your daily performance. You can reduce your risk of injury by being informed.
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