BU is currently looking for volunteers across stateside Air Force bases; by joining our team you will have the opportunity to receive an LOA and more.
At Benefits Unveiled, we prioritize the health and wellness of our military members and their families. Explore our extensive resources on healthcare benefits, mental health support, and wellness programs designed to keep you and your loved ones thriving. Below, you will find a table of contents with quick links and a legend to help you easily locate the benefits you need.
Description:
Cohen Veterans Network (CVN) is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to providing high-quality mental health care to post-9/11 veterans, active-duty service members, and their families. The network aims to improve the quality of life for military families by offering accessible, confidential, and effective mental health services.
Description:
Comprehensive Mental Health Care:
CVN offers specialized therapy for a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), adjustment issues, anger, grief and loss, and relationship problems.
Family Support:
The network provides services not only to veterans and active-duty service members but also to their families. This includes marriage counseling, relationship counseling, and help with children’s behavioral issues.
Confidential and Accessible Services:
CVN ensures that all services are confidential and comply with federal guidelines set by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Services are available both in-person at their clinics and via telehealth, based on preference or need.
No Cost or Low Cost:
CVN accepts most major insurances, including TRICARE, and offers services at no cost or low cost to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent access to care.
Veteran and Military Family Staff:
Many of the staff at Cohen Clinics have served in the military or are part of military families, providing a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by military personnel and their families.
How It Works:
Eligibility: The program is open to post-9/11 veterans, active duty service members (including National Guard and Reserves), and their families.
Application Process: Interested individuals can make an appointment online or by phone. CVN staff will guide them through the process and match them with appropriate services based on their needs.
Therapy and Support: Once enrolled, participants can access a range of mental health services tailored to their specific needs. CVN provides ongoing support to ensure effective treatment and positive outcomes.
By participating in the Cohen Veterans Network, military personnel and their families can receive the mental health support they need to lead fulfilling and productive lives.
How to Access: **Webpage/Site**
Sources: [Accessed September 28, 2024.] https://www.cohenveteransnetwork.org/
Description:
Give an Hour is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free and confidential mental health care services to active-duty military members, reservists, National Guard members, veterans, and their families. This program aims to address the mental health needs of military personnel and their loved ones by offering a range of support services. Here’s what the program offers and how it can benefit you:
Key Benefits:
● Free Mental Health Services:
○ Give an Hour provides free, confidential mental health care services, including one-on-one counseling, peer support groups, and emotional wellness training. This ensures that military members and their families can access the support they need without financial barriers1.
● Confidential Support:
○ The program offers confidential support, allowing individuals to discuss their concerns and challenges in a safe and private environment. This is particularly important for those who may be hesitant to seek help through military channels.
● Specialized Training for Providers:
○ Mental health professionals in the Give an Hour network receive specialized training to address the unique challenges faced by military personnel and their families. This ensures that the care provided is tailored to the specific needs of the military community1.
● Community and Peer Support:
○ In addition to individual counseling, Give an Hour offers peer support groups that provide a sense of community and shared understanding. These groups can help reduce feelings of isolation and foster connections among participants1.
● Flexible Access:
○ Services can be accessed in person, over the phone, or via video chat, making it convenient for individuals to receive support regardless of their location1.
How It Works:
● Eligibility: The program is available to active-duty military members, reservists, National Guard members, veterans, and their families.
● Access: To access Give an Hour services, visit the Give an Hour website and search for a provider in your area. You can contact the provider directly to schedule an appointment1.
● Support Services: In addition to counseling, the program offers various resources and tools to help individuals manage their mental health and well-being1.
By participating in Give an Hour, military members and their families can receive valuable mental health support, enhancing their overall well-being and resilience.
How to Access: **Webpage/Site**
Sources: [Accessed September 1, 2024.] Give an Hour. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://giveanhour.org/
Description:
Headspace offers a special program for military members, veterans, and their families, providing free access to its mindfulness and meditation app. This program aims to support the mental health and well-being of the military community. Here’s what the program offers and how it can benefit you:
Key Benefits:
● Free Access to Headspace:
○ Military members, veterans, and their families receive free access to the Headspace app, which includes guided meditations, mindfulness exercises, and sleep aids1.
● Mental Health Support:
○ The app offers tools to help manage stress, anxiety, and depression. This includes meditation sessions designed to improve mental resilience and overall well-being1.
● Improved Sleep:
○ Headspace provides sleepcasts, music, and guided exercises to help users fall asleep faster and enjoy more restful sleep. This can be particularly beneficial for those dealing with sleep disturbances1.
● Flexible and Convenient:
○ The app can be accessed from any device with an internet connection, allowing users to practice mindfulness and meditation anytime, anywhere1.
● Family-Friendly Content:
○ Headspace includes content suitable for all ages, making it a valuable resource for the entire family. This ensures that everyone can benefit from mindfulness practices1.
How It Works:
● Eligibility: The program is available to active duty service members, National Guard and Reserve members, veterans, and their families.
● Access: To access the free Headspace subscription, visit the Headspace website and verify your military status through Blue Star Families or other partnering organizations. Once verified, you can download the app and start using it immediately1.
● Support Services: In addition to the app, Headspace offers various resources and tools to help users integrate mindfulness into their daily lives1.
By participating in Headspace for Military, service members and their families can enhance their mental health and well-being through mindfulness and meditation practices, providing valuable support in managing the unique challenges of military life.
How to Access: **Webpage/Site**
Sources: [Accessed September 1, 2024.]
Description:
HeadStrong is a non-profit organization that provides mental health services for veterans and their families.
Key Benefits:
● Mental Health Services:
○ Access a variety of mental health services, including therapy, counseling, and medication management.
● Support Groups:
○ Connect with other veterans and their families facing similar challenges.
As a veteran or dependent, you can contact your local HeadStrong facility to learn more about their services and how to access them. HeadStrong is a valuable resource for veterans and their families, providing much-needed mental health services and support.
How to Access: **Webpage/Site**
Sources:
The Headstrong Project - 501c3 nonprofit for Veteran Mental Health. (n.d.). Retrieved September 1, 2024, from https://theheadstrongproject.org/
Description:
Jim Stoppani, a renowned expert in exercise physiology, offers a special program for military members, providing free access to his fitness resources. This program is designed to help military personnel maintain a healthy and fit lifestyle. Here’s what the program offers and how it can benefit you:
Key Benefits:
● Free Access to Fitness Programs:
○ Active duty military personnel can access Jim Stoppani’s fitness programs for free. This includes popular programs like Shortcut to Size, Shortcut to Shred, and other specialized workout plans1.
● Comprehensive Training:
○ The programs cover various aspects of fitness, including muscle growth, strength training, fat loss, and overall conditioning. This ensures a well-rounded approach to physical fitness2.
● Expert Guidance:
○ Jim Stoppani’s programs are based on scientific principles and years of research. Participants benefit from expert guidance on exercise techniques, nutrition, and supplementation2.
● Flexible and Convenient:
○ The workouts can be accessed online, allowing military members to train at their own pace and from any location. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those with busy schedules or who are stationed in different locations3.
● Community Support:
○ By joining the program, military members can connect with a community of like-minded individuals who share similar fitness goals. This support network can help maintain motivation and accountability2.
How It Works:
● Eligibility: The program is available to active duty military members. Verification of military status is required, which can be done using a military ID or other valid documentation2.
● Access: To access the free membership, visit Jim Stoppani’s website and register using your military email or provide proof of service. Once verified, you can start using the fitness resources immediately3.
● Support Services: In addition to workout plans, the program offers various resources, including nutrition guides, supplement advice, and instructional videos2.
By participating in Jim Stoppani’s military program, service members can enhance their physical fitness, improve their overall health, and stay motivated with expert guidance and community support.
How to Access: **Webpage/Site**
Sources: [Accessed September 1, 2024.] https://www.jimstoppani.com/f/military/
Description:
K9s for Warriors is a non-profit organization that provides service dogs to veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Key Benefits:
● Service Dog:
○ Receive a trained service dog to assist with daily tasks and provide emotional support.
● Independence:
○ Gain independence and improve quality of life.
● Healing:
○ Experience the healing power of the human-animal bond.
As a veteran with PTSD, you can apply for a K9s for Warriors service dog through their website or by contacting their admissions office. K9s for Warriors is a valuable resource for veterans with PTSD, providing trained service dogs that can significantly improve their quality of life.
How to Access: **Webpage/Site**
Sources:
K9s For Warriors. (n.d.). Service Dogs for Veterans with PTSD. Retrieved September 1, 2024, from https://k9sforwarriors.org/
Description:
Military OneSource offers free, confidential non-medical counseling services to active duty service members, National Guard and Reserve members, veterans, and their families. This program is designed to provide support for a wide range of personal and family issues. Here’s what the program offers and how it can benefit you:
Key Benefits:
● Confidential Support:
○ The counseling services are confidential, meaning that your sessions are private and not reported to your chain of command, spouse, or anyone else. This ensures you can seek help without concerns about privacy1.
● Wide Range of Issues Addressed:
○ Non-medical counseling can help with various issues, including relationship conflicts, stress management, coping with loss, managing deployments, and other personal challenges1.
● Short-Term, Solution-Focused Counseling:
○ The program offers short-term, solution-focused counseling, typically providing up to 12 sessions per issue. This approach helps you develop practical strategies to address your concerns2.
● Flexible Access:
○ Counseling sessions can be conducted in person, over the phone, via secure video, or through online chat. This flexibility allows you to choose the format that best fits your needs and schedule1.
● Support for All Family Members:
○ The program is available to all eligible family members, including children. This ensures that everyone in the family can receive the support they need3.
How It Works:
● Eligibility: The program is available to active duty service members, National Guard and Reserve members, veterans, and their families.
● Access: To access Military OneSource non-medical counseling, you can call 800-342-9647, chat online, or request an appointment through the Military OneSource website1.
● Session Formats: You can choose from face-to-face sessions, telephone counseling, secure online live chat, or secure video sessions.
By participating in Military OneSource non-medical counseling, military members and their families can receive valuable support to address personal and family challenges, enhancing their overall well-being and resilience.
How to Access: **militaryonesource**
Sources: [Accessed September 1, 2024.]
Military OneSource. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.militaryonesource.mil/
Description:
Military with PTSD is a non-profit organization that provides support and resources for veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Key Benefits:
● Support Groups:
○ Connect with other veterans with PTSD.
● Information and Resources:
○ Access information and resources about PTSD and its treatment.
As a veteran with PTSD, you can join Military with PTSD through their website or by contacting their customer service. Military with PTSD is a valuable resource for veterans with PTSD, providing support, information, and advocacy.
How to Access: **Webpage/Site**
Sources:
Wounded Warrior Project. (n.d.). Veteran PTSD Treatment & Support Resources. Retrieved September 1, 2024, from
Description:
Spiritune is a music therapy app that offers a special program for military members and their families, providing free access to its services. This program aims to support the mental health and well-being of the military community through the therapeutic power of music. Here’s what the program offers and how it can benefit you:
Key Benefits:
● Free Access to Spiritune:
○ Military members and their families receive free access to the Spiritune app, which includes personalized music therapy sessions designed to improve mental health and emotional well-being1.
● Mental Health Support:
○ The app offers music therapy to help manage stress, anxiety, and PTSD. Music therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment for these conditions, providing a non-invasive and enjoyable way to improve mental health1.
● Personalized Music Therapy:
○ Spiritune uses a science-based approach to create personalized music playlists that align with your emotional and mental health needs. This ensures that the therapy is tailored to your specific situation1.
● Flexible and Convenient:
○ The app can be accessed from any device with an internet connection, allowing you to use it anytime, anywhere. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for military members who may be stationed in different locations or have busy schedules1.
● Support for All Family Members:
○ The program includes content suitable for all age groups, ensuring that every member of the family can benefit from music therapy1.
How It Works:
● Eligibility: The program is available to active duty service members, National Guard and Reserve members, veterans, and their families.
● Access: To access the free Spiritune subscription, visit the Spiritune website and verify your military status through Blue Star Families or other partnering organizations. Once verified, you can download the app and start using it immediately1.
● Support Services: In addition to the app, Spiritune offers various resources and tools to help users integrate music therapy into their daily lives1.
By participating in Spiritune for Military, service members and their families can enhance their mental health and well-being through personalized music therapy, providing valuable support in managing the unique challenges of military life.
How to Access: **Webpage/Site**
Sources: [Accessed September 1, 2024.]
https://www.spiritune.com/post/improving-military-mental-health-spiritune-blue-star-families
Description:
The YMCA offers a special program for military members and their families, providing free or discounted memberships through the Department of Defense (DoD) Military Outreach Initiative. This program aims to support military families by offering access to YMCA facilities and services, promoting physical fitness, and fostering community connections. Here’s what the program offers and how it can benefit you:
Key Benefits:
● Free or Discounted Memberships:
○ Eligible military families can receive free or discounted YMCA memberships. This includes access to fitness centers, swimming pools, group exercise classes, and other YMCA facilities1.
● Respite Child Care:
○ The program offers respite child care services, allowing caregivers to take a break while their children are cared for in a safe and nurturing environment. This service is available for children from infancy up to 12 years of age1.
● Family Bonding:
○ YMCA memberships provide opportunities for families to spend quality time together, participate in recreational activities, and meet other military families. This helps strengthen family bonds and build a supportive community1.
● Health and Wellness:
○ Access to YMCA facilities and programs promotes physical fitness and overall well-being. Members can take advantage of fitness classes, personal training, and wellness programs tailored to their needs1.
● Community Engagement:
○ The YMCA offers various community events and programs that encourage social interaction and community involvement. This helps military families stay connected and engaged with their local communities1.
How It Works:
● Eligibility: The program is available to active duty service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and their families. Specific eligibility criteria include being on Title 10 orders and having at least six months remaining on those orders2.
● Access: To access the YMCA membership benefits, visit the Armed Services YMCA website or the DoD Military Outreach Initiative page to confirm your eligibility and complete the application process. You will need to provide documentation to verify your military status2.
● Membership Application: Once your eligibility is confirmed, you can apply for a YMCA membership at a participating location. The application process typically involves submitting the required documentation to your Military Component Approving Official (MCAO)2.
By participating in the YMCA Military Outreach Initiative, military families can enjoy free or discounted access to YMCA facilities and services, enhancing their physical fitness, family bonding, and community engagement.
How to Access: **CAC**
Sources: [Accessed September 1, 2024.] YMCA Military Outreach Initiative. (n.d.).
https://www.ymca.org/what-we-do/social-responsibility/military-outreach