Mental health is just as important for military and family readiness as physical fitness. While Military OneSource does not provide health care services, it does point members of the military family to the resources available to help. If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact the Military Crisis Line at 800-273-8255, then press 1, or access online chat by texting 838255.

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Tools for Parenting After Suicide

Resources are available for those whose loved one died by suicide. This article provides important steps to take, as well as resources for support and connection with others who have been down this difficult path.

Service member paints to help with PTSD
How to Cope With a Traumatic Event

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.

Woman relaxing at home
Taking Care of Yourself During Times of Stress and Grief

Taking care of your emotional well-being will help keep you strong for your service member and other loved ones. Learn ways to practice self-care when stress or grief build up.

Service member with face mask
Staying Healthy During COVID-19

It’s normal to relax as you engage in everyday activities when you’re comfortable with the task. Avoid risk during coronavirus-19, follow guidelines and don’t cut corners on your health.

Service member experiencing equine therapy
Getting Help for Combat Stress

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.

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Recognizing the Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

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.

Service member relaxing
Understanding and Dealing With Combat Stress and PTSD

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.

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Being Your Best: How Healthy Are Your Habits?

Tough times can throw things out of whack. If you feel in over your head and want to reclaim control, talking it out can really help. Reach out anytime to get started.

service member holding candle
Helping You and Your Family Survive a Death by Suicide

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.

Army soldiers talking
When a Service Member May Be at Risk for Suicide

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.

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Suicide Awareness

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.

Race using adaptive cycles
The Transformative Power of Adaptive Sports Programs

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.

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Your Service Member’s Well-Being: Mental Health Services for the Military

A range of mental health services are available to service members through the Department of Defense.

Service member talking on phone
Military and Family Life Counseling: There for Your Service Member

Military and family life counselors are among the benefits available to help service members overcome challenges and thrive in their military lives.

Military female on smart phone using Mood Hacker application
Military OneSource Virtual Resources for Well-Being

It’s important to take care of all aspects of your health. This includes your emotional well-being. Military OneSource offers telehealth counseling and virtual support. This allows you to get the help you need while staying safe.

Mental health specialist speaks with a service member in her office.
Mental Health Matters in the Military

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.

A soldier walks through a dark tunnel with a light and tree filled opening.
Resources for Understanding Suicide Prevention in the Military

Service members put their life on the line to protect our country. But serious risks may lurk in everyday life for some with intense trainings or as the pace of military life suddenly gets faster and for prolonged periods. And that can be even harder and more confusing to deal with as a loved one.

Psychologist listens to a patient.
Does Receiving Psychological Health Care Affect Security Clearance?

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.

Military male with arm around female
Transform Catastrophic Thinking Into Purposeful Action During Times of Crisis

With so much uncertainty and seemingly everything on the line because of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, it is not uncommon to have catastrophizing thoughts.

Service Members Walk onto Plane
The Pillars of Wellness

Understanding the five areas of resilience can help you achieve resiliency and successfully meet the challenges that many military members experience.

Man on couch with head in arms
Self-Injury Explained

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.