The demanding environments of military life and experiences of combat, during which many veterans experience psychological distress, can increase the risk for behavioral health issues. Approximately 18.5% of service members returning from Iraq or Afghanistan have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression, and 19.5% report experiencing a traumatic brain injury (TBI) during deployment (SAMHSA). Also, parental separations from deployment, frequent moves, and combat-related trauma or loss are all unique challenges related to military life and culture. These challenges can be sources of stress and adversity for military children and families, which can increase the risks of substance use.
Military families have a culture and unique behavioral health needs that may not be understood within the greater community. We at the ND PRMC support the behavioral health needs of America’s service men and women—active duty, National Guard, Reserve and veterans—along with their families, by providing information and resources to ensure that prevention efforts are accessible, culturally competent and trauma-informed.
ND Cares Military Data Book Fall 2018
Military service members and their families often communicate in ways that are specific to military life and culture. This reference guide includes basic information that can assist you in understanding the different military branches, identifying insignia you might see on a service member’s uniform, and understanding common terms, phrases or slang that might be used by the military families with whom you work.
We can help develop effective prevention strategies for your community
Additional Resources
SAMHSA's efforts to support veterans and military families
Service Members, Veterans, and their Families Technical Assistance (SMVF TA) Center