6 Resources For Military Spouses Struggling With Anxiety and Depression
I suffer from anxiety. Having a spouse in the military can add to the struggle. Over the years I have learned what works and how to deal with my anxiety. Sometimes that means changing little things in my life, other times that has meant going to see a counselor.
I know I am not alone in my anxiety. Other military spouses struggle with it too. Some spouses struggle with depression as well. No matter who you are or what you do, struggling with anxiety and depression can be a lifelong battle.
Mental health is a serious issue in the US and our military. It has touched our family personally as well as many other families I know. We shouldn’t be sweeping it under the rug, and we shouldn’t be embarrassed to reach out and seek help if we need it.
The good thing is that there are resources for military spouses who struggle with anxiety and depression. We don’t have to go through this alone. There is help out there.
Here is a list of six resources to help with your anxiety or depression:
One of the best things you can do if you are struggling with anxiety or depression is to talk about what is going on with your doctor. They can then talk with you about your options. For some that does mean medications and that choice should be one you make with your doctor.
For others, it could mean going to see a Psychiatrist or Psychologist. The good news is that TRICARE will allow self-referrals for mental health. You can have up to eight visits without having to get a referral. That means you can head on over to TRICARE to find an approved provider, call and make an appointment, and be seen. After the 8 visits, you can have the provider submit for more.
Military Family Life Counselor
The Military Family Life Counselor or MFLC program is where you can find a licensed clinical provider whose goal is to assist service members and their families with a wide range of issues. They offer this non-medical and confidential help if you need it, but they should not replace going to see a Psychiatrist or Psychologist.
The Military Family and Life Counseling Program offers non-medical and short-term counseling to the military and their families. This can be a good choice if you are dealing with deployment adjustments, stress management, grieving the loss of a loved one, or more. They do not deal with cases of abuse, suicidal thoughts, or mental health issues that may require long-term care or medication.
Military One Source also has articles on mental health and other issues affecting military families.
This organization has a mission to be able to help others by connecting them with a network of volunteers that can respond to the conditions that they are going through. Since 2005 they have focused on providing free mental health care to the military (including the National Guard and the Reserves,) Veterans and their families.
This lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for those in distress or in crisis. Please use this if you or a loved one is in trouble. They also have information on suicide and mental health as well as stories of recovery and hope.
The official website of the Military Health System. Information on mental health and wellness. They also have mental wellness tools and apps you can use.
If you are struggling, know you don’t have to struggle alone. There are resources out there for you, to help you get what you need to be in a better place.
Do you know of any resources for military spouses with anxiety and depression that should be added to this list?
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