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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.