Mental health support is a vital part of overall well-being, especially for those navigating the unique challenges of military life. Whether you’re a service member, a family member, or a survivor, there are multiple resources available to help you manage stress, grief, relationship issues, and more.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, help is available 24/7. Call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org to connect with trained counselors who are ready to listen and provide support.

Beyond emergency assistance, the TRICARE health plan offers a wide range of mental health services, including outpatient and inpatient care, emergency and non-emergency treatment, and substance use disorder services. While TRICARE does not cover non-medical counseling directly, other programs fill that gap.

Military OneSource: Confidential, Short-Term Counseling

Military OneSource provides free, confidential, short-term counseling for everyday life challenges. These services are available to service members and their families worldwide, 24/7. Licensed counselors can assist with:

• Relationship conflicts
• Stress management
• Parenting concerns
• Grief and loss
• Deployment-related stress

Sessions are available in person, by phone, secure video, or online chat. While Military OneSource counselors do not diagnose or treat clinical conditions, they offer valuable support for non-medical issues.

Military and Family Life Counseling (MFLC)

The MFLC Program offers additional support at or near many military installations. Licensed professionals provide confidential counseling for individuals, couples, children, and teens. MFLCs are embedded in schools, child development centers, and military units, making access convenient and familiar.

They help with:

• Relationship and workplace challenges
• Adjustment difficulties
• Parenting support
• Coping with grief

MFLCs also conduct briefings and presentations to promote mental wellness across the military community.

Support for Children and Youth

Children and teens can also access non-medical counseling through Military OneSource. Licensed providers offer a safe space for young people to talk through their concerns. Services are free and available in person, by phone, or through secure video and chat platforms.

Taking the Next Step

If short-term support isn’t enough, TRICARE offers comprehensive mental health care for diagnosed conditions. Some services, such as marriage counseling, may be covered under specific circumstances. However, free alternatives are often available through Military OneSource or MFLCs.

Early intervention is key. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself, your child, or another family member, resources are available to guide you toward better mental health.

To stay informed, consider subscribing to TRICARE email updates for the latest news and benefit information.