unique mental health needs of kids from military families

Children from all walks of life have mental health needs. 

But kids who grow up in military families, whether it’s a parent, caregiver or other close relative currently serving or who has served in the past, may have some experiences unique from their peers.

This could include:

• Visiting or living on a military base, here or overseas
• Worrying and missing a loved one due to deployment
• Moving frequently and attending multiple schools, sometimes within one school year
• Missing extended family

These challenges can help grow children in building resilience, which strengthens mental health. But it can also lead to some mental health challenges. This can be particularly true if frequent moves disrupt mental health care or distance them from support systems (like friends, extended family or a favorite teacher). 

How can I help kids from military families? 

Even if you’re not in a military family, you can still support the mental health of children in military households. 

• Learn the lingo. Do you know what a TDY is? How about DOD? FRG? The military has all kinds of acronyms and other nicknames for roles and organization. Ask a military member about terms you don’t know or look up terms online. 
• Don’t assume you know. Take the time to ask a child if they know anyone serving in the military or if they have a family member who’s been in the military. Their answer might surprise you. 
• Ask how you can help. If a family moves into your neighborhood and you find out they are connected to the military, ask how you can help. They may appreciate recommendations for services (pediatricians, dentists, etc. in your area), favorite places in the community or a home cooked meal. 
• Encourage schools in your area to serve military related kids in your district. Schools can play a big role in helping kids from all backgrounds feel like a sense of connection and belonging. Whether that’s celebrating the month of the military child in April, developing peer support networks or just offering more adults checking in, it can make a big difference. Purple Star Schools are programs that support military-connected children as they start attending new schools. Learn more about ones in your area.  

Military related kids are known to be very resilient, showing several mental health strengths but also may have challenges as well. Together, we can wrap this community in support and help. 

This resource was made possible thanks to the generosity of Bread Financial.

conversation starters to support kids from military families

Another way to support children from military families is to start the conversation with them about their experiences and how they feel. Click the orange button below to download our conversation starters about being a military kid. It can help you to guide conversations, recognize their needs, and provide the reassurance and support military kids deserve. The conversation starters are also available to download en español.

download your free conversation starters here

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