Coping with Separation
Source: MIARNG photo by Staff Sgt Helen MillerAny military-related separation can be tough for the entire family and may be especially hard on children. The good news is that you and your family can work together to help your children cope during each stage of the separation in a positive way.Before SeparationPrepare children for a separation. This will help them become a part of the decision-making process and build trust within your family. You are encouraged to:
Managing Stress in the Civilian Workplace
Source: Flickr billselakJoining the civilian workforce following your military career can be both an exciting and stressful time. The culture and operations of a civilian workplace may differ from what you experienced during your military career. Be patient as you adjust to your new position, work environment and co-workers.Common Workplace Stressors1. Feeling DisconnectedWhen you work with people who have never been in the military, you may feel disconnected or that you don’t have anything in common with your co-workers. You may also miss the strong bond of your unit.TIPS
Mind over Mood: Six Ways to Think Positively
Source: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Alexander Naylor/ ReleasedPositive thinking can improve your mood and help you keep stress in check. Here are six ways you can turn negative thoughts into positive thoughts:1. Don’t Overgeneralize. Overgeneralization is the belief that because something happened once it will happen again.
How to Develop Healthy Sleep Habits
Source: U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Michel SauretSleep is important in life, just like air, food and water. It allows your body to heal, boosts your immune system and improves learning and memory. With healthy sleep habits, you are more likely to perform your best, whether you are at home, deployed or away for training.
Understanding and Managing Anxiety Disorders
Source: U.S. Army Photo by Sgt. Eric Provost, Task Force Patriot PAOWe all worry or feel anxious at times, but if these feelings interfere with daily activities you may want to check in with your health care provider. Being aware of your own anxiety symptoms or concerns and knowing what to do about them may help you stay mission ready.Anxiety Disorders and their SymptomsAnxiety is a feeling of fearfulness and uncertainty. Anxiety disorders last at least six months and can get worse if not addressed. Here is a list of common anxiety disorders:
Discussing your Psychological Health with a Provider
Source: U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Cohen A. Young/ReleasedMaking a plan to talk with a health care provider about your psychological health concerns is an important step toward improving your overall health. If you have been through trauma or other challenges, it may be hard to talk about your experiences. A health care provider can help you understand your feelings and maintain your mental fitness. This article offers useful tips to help you choose a provider, prepare for your first appointment and make the most of your visit.
Accessing Care at Military Treatment Facilities
Source: U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Teddy Wade/ReleasedMilitary treatment facilities provide emergency and non-emergency care for both physical and invisible wounds covered by TRICARE. If you are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression or any other psychological health concern, you can access services at military treatment facilities to help you cope. This article will help active-duty service members and their families learn about the types of psychological health care offered at military treatment facilities and how to access them.
Understanding Moral Injury
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Brian Chaney/ReleasedAs a service member, you may encounter inner conflicts, ethical or moral challenges during deployments, special missions, or in the course of one’s duty. You may be required to act in ways that go against your moral beliefs or witness behaviors by others that make you feel uncomfortable.1 These experiences can lead to moral injury.This article explores the concept of moral injury, why a service member might experience it and the resources available for care and support.
Real Warriors App: Saluting and Supporting Those Who Serve
Not on a compatible device? Check out the Wall and salute your favorite photos from any device at realstrength.realwarriors.net. Who will you honor?Spread the word! Download our app promo kit for content you can share in your social networks, blog posts and newsletters. Download and share our mobile app graphics!
Treatment Options for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Source: U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Austin Hazard/ReleasedPosttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychological health concern that can occur following a traumatic or life-threatening event. You can learn to cope with and recover from these events over time. However, others may experience stress-related changes in behavior that continue for months and develop into PTSD.1 Just as service members may experience different symptoms of PTSD, there are several options for care. This article provides information about the types of care and treatment available for PTSD and how to access them.