Military Culture Resources

The military has a unique culture. The Nation's armed forces as a whole have long-standing values and each branch of the military has its own traditions. Learn more about these cultures, the impact of military service, and common challenges Service members may experience after deployment and when transitioning back into civilian life. These courses offer information on such fundamental issues as military demographics, branches, rank, and status, while also addressing common stressors that Service members face.

Military Sexual Trauma

Both men and women can experience military sexual trauma (MST), which VA defines as sexual assault or repeated, threatening sexual harassment that occurred while a Veteran was in the military. There are many services available for sexual assault treatment within the DoD, and every VA medical center has an MST Coordinator available. It is important to raise your awareness about sexual traumas and prepare for how you will respond if Service members or Veterans discuss their experiences with sexual assault. These resources provide links to materials to help you become more familiar with sexual assault and its treatment.

Supporting Military Families

Clergy members have an important role and opportunity in supporting Service members, Veterans, and their families. VA clergy can meet with Veterans, spouses, children, and extended family members to provide spiritual care and support.

When Service members leave military service, either voluntarily or due to medical discharge, they and their families experience many changes and losses. Veterans may also lose a sense of identity because they are no longer part of a well-trained unit. For their part, families can experience relocation, isolation, and the loss of an extended community of support when they leave a military base.

Religious communities can be important sources of support, both emotional and instrumental. You can encourage families to connect with healthy community supports, and facilitate religious communities' efforts to reach out to Service members and their families.

Here is a selection of programs and resources that provide helpful services for Service members, Veterans, and their families:

Family and Friends section of the National Center for PTSD website provides information about the effects of trauma on families, children, and relationships. Content also includes helpful resources for family members and links to help loved ones get the care they need.

AboutFace Family Section allows users to hear from family members of Veterans with PTSD. Learn how treatment helped the Veterans as well as the people they love.

VA Benefits for Spouses, Dependents, and Survivors offers support to family members and dependents of Service members who have died or were seriously injured in the line of duty, as well as career, education, and home loan assistance.

Joining Forces works hand-in-hand with the public and private sectors to ensure that Service members, Veterans and their families have the tools they need to succeed throughout their lives.

VA's Coaching Into Care Program provides a free "coaching" service for family and friends of Veterans who see that a Veteran needs help. Coaching involves helping the caller figure out how to motivate the Veteran to seek services.