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Real Warriors Campaign

Real Warriors - Real Battles - Real Strength


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Frequently Asked Questions

Q1:

What is the Real Warriors Campaign?

A:

The Real Warriors Campaign encourages members of the military community to seek help for psychological health concerns by promoting a culture of support and emphasizing that mental health care IS health care. Initially founded in May 2009, the campaign was revitalized in 2023 through collaboration between the Defense Department’s Psychological Health Center of Excellence (PHCoE) and the Defense Suicide Prevention Office (DSPO). The campaign remains active in the Department of Defense’s mission to reduce the stigma associated with mental health, amplify suicide prevention efforts, and support military community psychological health and readiness. The campaign prioritizes early help seeking in the military community, encourages access to mental health care destigmatizes mental health, and increasing knowledge and understanding of mental health information.

Mental health concerns and needs present in a variety of ways from coping with the daily stresses of military life to challenges such as depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, or posttraumatic stress disorder. Regardless of the concern, the Real Warriors Campaign links service members, veterans and their families with mental health knowledge and provides free, confidential resources including online articles, print materials, videos, and podcasts. If you or someone you know is coping with any concerns know that reaching out is a sign of strength. Remember, mental health IS health.

Q2:

What does it mean to be a Real Warrior?

A:

Real Warriors prioritize psychological fitness as much as physical fitness. Real Warriors know that the stressors of military life can impact one’s mental health.. Real Warriors know reaching out for help is a sign of strength.

Q3:

Where can I get help if I’m experiencing a mental health crisis?

A:

If you or somebody you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support and crisis resources for anyone in distress to include you or your loved ones.

Q4:

What does “Defend Your Mental Health” mean?

A:

Defending your mental health means making your mental health a priority. It means reducing stressors you can control, and increasing the use of supports, including mental health services. Mental health care is health care. No matter what you are facing, you don’t have to go at it alone. It’s ok to ask for help.

Q5:

How can I get involved with the Real Warriors Campaign

A:

Here are several ways to get involved:

  1. Link to the campaign on your website or blog.
  2. Download free materials to distribute at events or display at your facility.
  3. Use video profiles in trainings, briefings and presentations to service members, veterans, and families.
  4. Connect with us on Facebook and Twitter.
  5. Share and retweet campaign posts on your social media channels. 
  6. Embed or run a video profile, video short or PSA on your website, closed circuit television or TV station.
  7. Include a print feature article or website article in your newspaper or publication.
  8. Become a campaign advocate and help reduce stigma and spread the message that reaching out is a sign of strength.
Q6:

What topics does the Real Warriors Campaign cover?

A:

The Real Warriors Campaign website includes articles on health topics like sleep, stress and anxiety, suicide prevention, and transitions written for active-duty service members, members of the National Guard and Reserve, veterans, and military families. The articles provide a range of practical tips and resources for supporting early intervention for treatment of psychological health concerns in all stages of military life including separations and reintegration.

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Real Warriors FAQs

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Frequently asked questions and answers about the Real Warriors program

Brandon Act Aims to Improve Mental Health Support

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Gilbert R. Cisneros Jr., undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness, signed a policy today to initiate implementation of the Brandon Act and improve the process for service members seeking mental health support.

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It’s no secret. It’s very easy to give up and much harder to carry on in times of adversity. U.S. Army Maj. (Ret.) Christina Truesdale, competitive cyclist, has a very different take on that secret, and it has to do with surrendering. Find out how, in the face of adversity, that sweet surrender landed her on a new set of wheels.

As a Military Family, We Do What We Do with Faith, Hope, Love, and Prayers

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Avoiding Substance Misuse as a Coping Mechanism

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Military life is rewarding, yet often stressful. Learn five options to help you find healthy ways to cope with stress.

5 Tips to Manage Anger

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When dealing with the stresses of military life, anger can become frequent or intense. Use these tips to manage anger in a healthy way.

4 Steps to Getting Care for Invisible Wounds

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When it comes to invisible wounds, you don’t have to go it alone. Take the first step and learn how you can get connected with a health care provider.

5 Tips for Better Sleep

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Sleep is important for staying mission ready and keeping your mind sharp. When possible, get the Zzzs you need with these tips.

29 Sec PSA: Staff Sgt. Brittany Johnson

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29 Sec PSA: Staff Sgt. Brittany Johnson

Staff Sgt. Brittany Johnson spent years reliving memories of her sexual assault. By seeking care, Staff Sgt. Johnson learned what triggered her and how to cope when memories resurfaced. Hear how Staff Sgt. Johnson turned a traumatic event into an opportunity to share her story and help others.

59 Sec PSA: Staff Sgt. Brittany Johnson

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59 Sec PSA: Staff Sgt. Brittany Johnson

Staff Sgt. Brittany Johnson spent years reliving memories of her sexual assault. By seeking care, Staff Sgt. Johnson learned what triggered her and how to cope when memories resurfaced. Hear how Staff Sgt. Johnson turned a traumatic event into an opportunity to share her story and help others.

59 Sec PSA: Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Christopher K. Greca

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As a senior noncommissioned officer, retired Command Sergeant Major Greca did not recognize the subtle signs and symptoms of his physical and invisible wounds. Hear how CSM Greca realized that it takes strength to recognize the warning signs, and to seek support from military health resources.

Depression: Know the Signs and Options for Care

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Depression is treatable and treatment works. Learn the signs and options for getting care.

Coping with Flashbacks Between Appointments

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Coping with Flashbacks Between Appointments

Flashbacks can sometimes occur during treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder. Follow these tips to help cope with flashbacks between appointments with a health care provider.

4 Facts About PTSD

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4 Facts About PTSD

Learn about PTSD symptoms, the benefits of seeking care and get connected to confidential, 24/7 resources.

5 Consejos Para Controlar la Ira

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5 Consejos Para Controlar la Ira

Cuando se siente el estres de la vida militar, la ira puede ser frequente o intenso. Use estos consejos para controlar su ira de una manera más saludable.

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Last Updated: May 08, 2023
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