Mental health is health. The military health system has many resources to help service members, families or veterans struggling with mental health issues.
The life of military families is generally very different from others. Military members may be subject to frequent moves, deployments, and stressful experiences due to combat and time away from family. Families face additional stressors when their loved ones are deployed and managing family life on the home front. Traumatic events such as combat, assault or disaster can have long-term negative effects such as sleep disturbances, increased anger, nightmares, anxiety and alcohol and drug abuse.
Protecting, optimizing and defending mental health needs are essential to the well-being and readiness of our military force. Asking for help is a sign of strength and an essential part of individual performance and overall preparation.
You’re not alone.
If you are concerned that you or a loved one may be suffering from a mental illness, you are not alone. Mental health is an important part of overall health and well-being, but mental illness affects millions of people around the world. Mental health disorders include anxiety, depression, seasonal affective disorder or more serious illnesses like bipolar disorder, major depression, schizophrenia, PTSD, etc. Unfortunately, most people with mental illness do not receive the mental health services they need.
Do what feels right for you.
There is no one way to think, feel or act. The important thing is to take advantage of all mental health resources. Remember that every moment can affect you and others differently. Treatment is available and you can seek help.
