Skip to main content

Military Health System

Test of Sitewide Banner

This is a test of the sitewide banner capability. In the case of an emergency, site visitors would be able to visit the news page for addition information.

Real Warriors Campaign

Real Warriors - Real Battles - Real Strength


Psychological Health Resource Center Live Chat - Visit the 24/7 PHRC Live Chat to speak directly with a trained psychological health resource consultant. Conversations are free and confidential.


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.

You also may be interested in...

5 Consejos Para Controlar la Ira

Video
6/23/2021
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.

5 Tips to Stay Mission Ready

Video
6/23/2021
5 Tips to Stay Mission Ready

Getting the job done in the military takes more than just physical strength. Whether you are at home or abroad, follow these tips to stay mission ready and mentally fit.

Understanding and Coping with Natural and Human-made Disasters

Video
6/23/2021
Understanding and Coping with Natural and Human-made Disasters

Disasters, such as hurricanes, floods, and peacetime terrorist attacks, can negatively impact your psychological health. Learn how to manage your stress reactions.

5 Consejos Para Dormir Mejor

Video
6/23/2021
5 Consejos Para Dormir Mejor

Dormir es importante para mantenerse listo mentalmente y físicamente. Cuando sea posible, use estos consejos para dormir mejor.

You Are Your Partner's Biggest Support

Video
6/23/2021
You Are Your Partner's Biggest Support

Military life can be difficult for couples. Learn how to keep your relationship resilient to endure difficult times and stay mission ready.

4 Ways to Cope with Survivor Guilt

Video
6/23/2021
4 Ways to Cope with Survivor Guilt

When a fellow warrior dies or is injured in battle, it’s common to have feelings of shock, regret or guilt. This is known as Survivor guilt. Learn how you can stay psychologically fit.

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

Video
6/23/2021
29 Sec PSA: Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Christopher K Greca

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.

Learn How to Prioritize Your Psychological Health

Video
6/23/2021
Learn How to Prioritize Your Psychological Health

Taking care of yourself can help balance life’s demands. These tips can help you manage time and make your psychological health a top priority.

Get Ready for Your First Appointment

Video
6/23/2021
Get Ready for Your First Appointment

When you meet with a health care provider for the first time, it’s important to be honest about your concerns to make the best treatment plan for you. Learn tips to help you get ready.

59 Sec PSA: Retired Maj. Jeremy Haynes

Video
6/21/2021
59 Sec PSA: Retired Maj. Jeremy Haynes

After being shot four times in Afghanistan, Retired Maj. Jeremy Haynes faced thoughts of depression and suicide on his path to physical recovery. However, after reaching out for support from his wife and healthcare providers, Maj. Jeremy Haynes began to heal his visible and invisible wounds of war.

29 Sec PSA: Retired Sgt. Josh Hopper

Video
6/21/2021
29 Sec PSA: Retired Sgt. Josh Hopper

The significance of reaching out and receiving help for a traumatic brain injury or psychological health issue are vividly illustrated in these public service announcements presenting the story of Retired Sgt. Josh Hopper, U.S. Marine Corps.

Video Profile: Retired Maj. Jeremy Haynes

Video
6/21/2021
Video Profile: Retired Maj. Jeremy Haynes

After being shot four times in Afghanistan, Retired Maj. Jeremy Haynes faced thoughts of depression and suicide on his path to physical recovery. However, after reaching out for support from his wife and healthcare providers, Maj. Jeremy Haynes began to heal his visible and invisible wounds of war.

59 Sec PSA: Retired Gunnery Sgt. Mathew Barr

Video
6/21/2021
59 Sec PSA: Retired Gunnery Sgt. Mathew Barr

For 10 years, Retired Gunnery Sgt. Mathew Barr struggled with flashbacks of an IED explosion and survivor guilt from combat. After he reached out for support, counselors, chaplains and health care providers like LCDR Hanrahan helped set him on a path to success.

Video Profile: Retired 1st Sgt. Simon Sandoval

Video
6/21/2021
Video Profile: Retired 1st Sgt. Simon Sandoval

After losing Marines in Iraq and Afghanistan, Retired 1st Sgt. Sandoval began drinking heavily, lost interest in maintaining his health and fitness, and pulled away from family and friends. Eventually, by opening up and sharing his experiences, he began to turn his life back around.

Video Profile: Lt. Col. Iwona Blackledge

Video
6/21/2021
Video Profile: Lt. Col. Iwona Blackledge

As a nurse deployed numerous times in Africa and the Middle East, Air Force Lt Col Blackledge saw many casualties and cared for wounded warriors and civilians alike. Her story sheds light on the important psychological health needs of warrior caregivers.

Page 2 of 6 , showing items 16 - 30
First < 1 2 3 4 5  ... > Last 
Last Updated: May 08, 2023
Follow us on Instagram Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter Follow us on YouTube Sign up on GovDelivery