Mental Health
Crisis Support
If you need help right away, call or text 988. This number connects you to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can reach mental health professionals 24/7, no matter where you are.
We care about your mental and physical health. Serving your country can bring unique challenges, and we understand that these can be tough to handle. We’re here to support you. See what’s covered.
Signs of Anxiety and Depression
Think about the past two weeks. Have you felt any of these symptoms?
- Nervous or anxious
- Trouble sleeping or worrying too much
- Difficulty relaxing
- Feeling restless
- Easily annoyed
- Fearful, as if something bad will happen
Symptoms of Depression
You may also feel:
- No interest in activities you used to enjoy
- Down, hopeless, or sad
- Tired or lacking energy
- Changes in appetite (eating too little or too much)
- Bad feelings about yourself
- Trouble focusing on tasks
- Thoughts of wanting to harm yourself
If you answered "yes" to any of these symptoms, it could be a sign of anxiety or depression. This doesn’t mean you have a condition, but it may be a good idea to talk to your doctor.
Understanding Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
It’s normal to feel upset after a traumatic event. Many Americans experience such events. Military members might face these events more often because of their duties. PTSD can develop if feelings of distress last for months or years after the trauma. Sometimes, these feelings can start later or come and go.
If you’re dealing with stress from a traumatic experience, TRICARE can help you find support and guidance.
Signs of Substance Use Disorder
Consider these questions:
- Do you think you should cut back on drinking or drug use?
- Have you felt annoyed when others criticize your substance use?
- Do you feel guilty about your drinking or drug use?
- Do you use substances first thing in the morning to feel better?
If you answered "yes" to any of these, it might be time to discuss your habits with your doctor. Substance use includes illegal drugs and misusing prescription medications.
Treatment Options
TRICARE may cover various treatments, including:
- Inpatient care (both emergency and non-emergency)
- Intensive outpatient programs
- Help with withdrawal symptoms (detox)
- Medication-assisted treatment
- Behavioral health therapy
- Office-based opioid treatment
- Partial hospitalization
- Residential treatment for substance use
Note: TRICARE doesn’t cover unproven treatments.
Suicide Prevention
You’re not alone. Support is available for whatever challenges you face. In the U.S., someone dies by suicide every 10.9 minutes. It ranks as the 11th leading cause of death overall and the second leading cause for military personnel. Many who die by suicide don’t have a known mental health issue.
Factors contributing to thoughts of suicide can include personal problems like finances or divorce, as well as military-related issues like deployment. TRICARE offers programs and treatment options to help.
Resources for Support
To build resilience and improve your well-being, consider these tips:
- Get enough sleep
- Limit alcohol intake
- Stay active
- Avoid tobacco products
- Seek help for military sexual trauma
- Manage stress
Additional Resources
Resources for Injured Service Members
Last Updated 11/21/2024