Being in the military can be stressful for service members and their families. Everyone reacts to stress and traumatic experiences differently, and some may feel angry or isolated while they are dealing with difficult circumstances. These reactions can be common responses to life events. However, for some, these feelings may be signs of more serious ...

The Army Substance Abuse Program is currently holding a virtual 5K walk or run to promote selfcare and highlight resources in support of Suicide Prevention Month. Community members can participate in the run from anywhere until Sept. 30, and will receive a swag bag upon completion while supplies last.

Suicide is a significant public health issue that impacts individuals, families, communities and society at large. The issue is also tied to what the U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vevek Murthy, called an “Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation” in a May health advisory that calls for a National Strategy to Advance Social Connection.

A U.S. Army public affairs officer highlights the importance of dogs in mental health while promoting "Dog Jog for Life," an event that embodies the spirit of suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention at U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz. “Our dogs often understand our moods better than we do ourselves. They offer us empathy, share in our ...

The Army Restoration and Reconditioning Center at Grafenwoehr, Germany, hosts a five-day mind and body structured program where soldiers with deployment stress receive enhanced coping strategies and are taught problem-solving techniques. Another center is located in Zagan, Poland.

Overall, both military men and women are nearly twice as likely to report feeling high levels of stress in their military work (39%) than in their family life (22%), according to the National Library of Medicine. Keesler Air Force Base in Mississippi provides multiple resources for airmen and their families who may need physical or psychological ...

“Dogs are like little mood boosters in hospitals,” said U.S. Army Capt. James Walker, hospital chaplain of Bayne-Jones Army Community Hospital. He submitted a photo of his dog, Scout, to participate in DHA's Dog Days of Summer campaign, which raises awareness of facility dogs across the MHS. Everyone, including the hospital and dental commander, and ...

Veterinary Corps ensures the health, safety and mission readiness of military working animals.

The facility dog program at Walter Reed provides interactive care with innovative animal assisted interventions to help reduce stress and increase overall feelings of well-being.

Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune staff are receiving comfort and support from four-legged friends. For the past several months, Beasley the Basset Hound, has been making her rounds in her Red Cross volunteer vest, providing treats for humans in the form of pets and cuddles.

Facility dogs have benefitted from the respect wounded warriors have for them and support mental health and wellness in patients across the Military Health System.

U.S. public health agencies such as the National Institute of Mental Health have recognized that certain minority groups appear to experience greater risk for certain behavioral health disorders. The higher rates of adverse health problems in minority groups are often referred to as “disparities.”

Facility dogs across the Military Health System are being recognized for their value with honorary commissions, enlistments, and service vests.

This week, the Defense Health Agency is celebrating facility dogs assigned to military hospitals across the nation for its “Dog Days of Summer” campaign July 24-28. DHA will spotlight stories of hard-working dogs dedicated to keeping service members, their families, and hospital staff healthy and happy.

Moving season is in full swing for many military families. The process of a Permanent Change of Station, or PCS, can be both exciting and stressful. We've got some tips to help ease the rigors of relocation.