Military life is demanding, but access to education doesn’t have to take a back seat. Today’s online learning opportunities are more flexible and accessible than ever, making it easier for service members and their families to pursue higher education, professional development, and certifications—no matter where military life takes them.

Whether you’re an active-duty service member or a military spouse, there are numerous programs and benefits designed to support your educational journey. Here’s a breakdown of what’s available and how to make the most of it.

For Active Duty Service Members

1. Tuition Assistance (TA)

• What It Is: A Department of Defense program that pays up to 100% of tuition and fees for eligible active-duty service members.
• Coverage: Typically covers up to $250 per semester hour, with an annual cap of $4,500.
• Who Qualifies: Active-duty members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Space Force, and Coast Guard.
• How It’s Used: TA can be applied toward associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs (some restrictions apply for advanced degrees).
• Where to Start: Service members should begin through their branch’s education office or online portal (ArmyIgnitED, MyNavy Education, Air Force Virtual Education Center, etc.).

2. GI Bill

• What It Is: The Post-9/11 GI Bill provides comprehensive education benefits to eligible service members and veterans.
• Coverage: Can cover full tuition and fees at public colleges and universities, and up to a certain amount at private or foreign institutions. It also includes a monthly housing allowance and a stipend for books and supplies.
• Online Programs: Eligible for distance learning. While the Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) is typically reduced for online-only courses, hybrid programs with in-person classes may restore full benefits.
• Transferring Benefits: Some service members can transfer unused benefits to their spouses or dependents (must be done while still on active duty).

3. Credentialing Assistance (CA) Programs

• Available in some branches (e.g., Army Credentialing Assistance through ArmyIgnitED).
• Pays for professional credentials, certifications, and licensure exams in fields like IT (CompTIA), healthcare, project management (PMP), and more.

4. Google Career Certificates (Coursera)

• Free access to Google Career Certificates for in-demand fields like IT Support, Data Analytics, Project Management, and UX Design.
• Offered through Hiring Our Heroes and Coursera to military members and veterans.

For Military Spouses

Military spouses often put their careers and education on hold during active-duty years. However, online education provides flexibility and opportunity—whether to earn a degree, get certified, or pivot careers.

1. My Career Advancement Account (MyCAA)

• What It Is: A scholarship program offering up to $4,000 in financial assistance for eligible spouses of active-duty service members.
• Coverage: Funding can be applied toward licenses, certifications, or associate degrees leading to portable careers.
• Eligibility: Spouses of active-duty service members in pay grades E-1 to E-5, W-1 to W-2, and O-1 to O-2.
• Fields Supported: Healthcare, education, information technology, business, and skilled trades.
• Where to Start: Visit the MyCAA Spouse Portal at Military OneSource.

2. GI Bill (Transferred Benefits)

• Spouses of service members may be eligible to use transferred Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits for tuition, books, and housing.
• Spouses typically don’t receive the Monthly Housing Allowance unless the service member has separated from service.
• Benefits can be used at online schools, making it possible to study from anywhere.

3. Military Spouse Career Advancement and Employment Programs

• Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP): Helps spouses connect with employers committed to hiring military spouses.
• Hiring Our Heroes Military Spouse Fellowship Program: Offers 6-week paid fellowships with companies that often lead to employment.

4. Google Career Certificates (Coursera)

• Free Google Career Certificates are available to military spouses through Hiring Our Heroes.
• Self-paced programs designed for job-readiness in less than six months in areas like:
  • IT Support
  • Data Analytics
  • Project Management
  • UX Design
• These certificates are recognized by employers such as Google, Deloitte, and Verizon.

Whether you’re active duty or a military spouse, online education provides a path to career growth and personal development, no matter where the military sends you. From full college degrees to short-term certifications, there’s an option that fits your schedule, budget, and long-term goals.

Investing in education is one of the best ways military families can prepare for life after service, ensuring financial stability and personal fulfillment in the civilian world.

For many military families, the end of active-duty life marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. While service members hang up their uniforms, military spouses often find themselves at a similar crossroads—ready to step into new roles, embrace stability, and reignite their professional ambitions.

The years spent moving duty station to duty station, managing households during deployments, and putting careers on hold are not wasted time. In fact, those years cultivated an incredible skill set that employers in the civilian workforce value. Post-military life offers military spouses a unique chance to pivot, grow, and launch a “second service” of their own—this time, focusing on personal career fulfillment.

A New Chapter for the Whole Family

Military retirement isn’t just a transition for the service member—it’s a shift for the entire family. With newfound stability, many spouses find they finally have the chance to plant roots and focus on long-term career goals that might have seemed out of reach during active-duty years.

Whether you’re re-entering the workforce after a long pause or seeking to change direction entirely, this next season of life can be the perfect opportunity to build a career that aligns with your passions and skills.

Industries That Value Military Spouses

Certain industries recognize the unique strengths of military spouses and actively seek to hire them:

1. Healthcare and Social Services
   • Nursing, counseling, social work.
   • Military spouse experience with caregiving and support roles can be a natural fit.
2. Education and Training
   • Teaching, tutoring, educational administration.
   • Military spouses often develop instructional skills through base volunteerism and community involvement.
3. Government and Federal Jobs
   • Spouses often qualify for military spouse hiring preferences.
   • Positions in administration, logistics, and human resources are common entry points.
4. Project Management and Operations
   • PMI (Project Management Institute) certification can boost job opportunities.
   • Relevant to industries like construction, healthcare, IT, and corporate sectors.
5. Technology and Remote Work
   • IT support, cybersecurity, software development, and virtual assistance.
   • Tech certifications (CompTIA, AWS, Salesforce) open doors for remote and hybrid roles.
6. Entrepreneurship and Small Business
   • Many military spouses turn their passions into businesses (consulting, creative services, online retail).

Actionable Strategies to Get Started

1. Update Your Resume

• Highlight skills, not just job titles. Emphasize leadership roles, volunteer experience, and project management.
• Frame gaps in employment as periods of skill development—PCS moves, caregiving, and volunteering count!
• Get free professional resume help at:
  • Family Support Centers (Airman & Family Readiness, Army Community Service, Fleet & Family Support)
  • Military OneSource Spouse Career Center (free consultations with certified career coaches)

2. Leverage Networking Events

• Attend Hiring Our Heroes Military Spouse Hiring Events—both virtual and in-person.
• Join local chambers of commerce or professional groups, depending on the position or desired career track
• Tap into military spouse organizations like In Gear Career or Military SpouseProfessional Network (MSPN) for mentorship and local networking opportunities.
• Use LinkedIn and request a free one-year Premium Career subscription through their military spouse program.

3. Get Certified

Depending on your career goals, certifications can give you a competitive edge:

• Project Management Professional (PMP) or Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) (for project managers).
• CompTIA A+, Security+, Network+ (for IT and cybersecurity roles).
• Human Resources Certifications (SHRM-CP or PHR).
• Teaching Certifications (state-specific, or TESOL for teaching English online).
• Medical and Healthcare Licenses (nursing, dental assisting, social work—check for portability programs like the Interstate Compact Licensure for nurses).

Programs like MyCAA (for eligible spouses of active-duty service members) and Military Spouse Career Advancement accounts can help fund certifications. Even after active duty ends, many community colleges and state programs offer military spouse discounts.

4. Explore Federal Employment

• Military spouses may qualify for Non-Competitive Appointment Authority, giving them hiring preference for federal jobs.
• Check USAJobs.gov for spouse-preference postings.
• Connect with a Family Support Center Employment Specialist for help navigating the application process.

Military spouses bring a wealth of skills to the table—skills forged by experience, sharpened by challenge, and ready for the next chapter.

Your second service starts now—and it’s one you can design on your own terms.

Whether you’re new to managing your finances or looking to make smarter money decisions, understanding the types of financial accounts offered by banks is a great first step. Banks and credit unions provide several account options designed for different needs, from daily spending to long-term savings. Below is a straightforward overview of these accounts—including their pros and cons—as well as a look at banks and credit unions tailored specifically for military service members and veterans.

Types of Bank Accounts

1. Checking Accounts

A checking account is designed for everyday transactions, like paying bills, shopping, and direct deposits. Most offer debit cards and online banking.

Benefits:

• Easy access to funds via checks, debit cards, or electronic payments.
• Typically offer unlimited transactions.
• Many accounts include online banking and mobile apps.

Downsides:

• Some banks charge monthly maintenance fees (though many waive them if you meet balance or deposit requirements).
• They usually earn little to no interest on your balance.

2. Savings Accounts

Savings accounts are designed to help you set money aside while earning interest.

Benefits:

• Earns interest on the balance.
• Often has low minimum balance requirements.
• Easy to transfer money between linked checking and savings accounts.

Downsides:

• Federal regulations may limit certain types of withdrawals to six per month (though rules can vary).
• Interest rates are generally lower compared to other savings products like certificates or money market accounts.

3. Money Market Accounts (MMA)

A money market account is a hybrid between a savings and checking account. It typically offers higher interest rates and limited check-writing abilities.

Benefits:

• Higher interest rates compared to standard savings accounts.
• Provides some check-writing and debit card access.
• FDIC- or NCUA-insured up to the legal limit.

Downsides:

• Requires a higher minimum balance to avoid fees.
• Limited withdrawals per month (usually six).
• Some MMAs have tiered interest rates, meaning higher balances earn more interest.

4. Certificates of Deposit (CDs)

Also called savings certificates, CDs require you to deposit money for a fixed period (term) in exchange for a guaranteed interest rate.

Benefits:

• Fixed interest rates often higher than savings or MMA rates.
• A secure, predictable way to grow savings over time.
• FDIC- or NCUA-insured up to legal limits.

Downsides:

• Funds are locked in for a set term, usually ranging from a few months to several years.
• Early withdrawal often results in penalties.
• Limited flexibility compared to savings or money market accounts.

Military-Associated Banks and Credit Unions

Service members, veterans, and their families have access to several banks and credit unions that offer tailored financial services. These institutions understand the unique needs of military life, from frequent moves to deployments, and often provide lower fees, better rates, and military-specific programs.

1. Armed Forces Bank

• Offers checking and savings accounts, personal loans, and home loans tailored for military members.
• Flexible banking options, including early pay for military direct deposits.
• Branches often located on or near military installations.

2. Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU)

• The largest credit union in the world, serving all branches of the military.
• Competitive rates on savings, CDs, loans, and mortgages.
• Special programs for active-duty and retired service members, including early pay and deployment benefits.
• Worldwide access with robust online and mobile banking.

3. USAA Federal Savings Bank

• Exclusively serves military members, veterans, and their eligible family members.
• Free checking and savings accounts with no monthly fees.
• Early direct deposit and a large ATM network with fee reimbursements.
• Comprehensive financial services, including insurance and investment products.
• Waives ATM fees at USAA or preferred ATM.

4. Pentagon Federal Credit Union (PenFed)

• Open to military members, veterans, and now the general public.
• High-yield savings accounts and competitive CD rates.
• Auto loans, mortgages, and personal loans with military-friendly terms.
• Access to over 85,000 fee-free ATMs.

The goal with utilizing any bank is to make the most of your hard-earned money. Whether that is through checking, savings or certificates, know you options and what would work best for you and your family.

Retiring from military service is a big transition in many ways – one of those ways is how healthcare is provided to the service member and their family members. TRICARE offers several health insurance options for retired service members and their eligible family members. Understanding these options is key to making the best choices for your healthcare needs during retirement.

Who’s Eligible?

If you’re a retired service member, you’re eligible for TRICARE benefits if you fall into one of these categories:

• You retired from active duty.
• You retired from the National Guard or Reserve (beginning at age 60 or earlier if drawing retirement pay due to specific service credits).
• You’re placed on the Temporary Disability Retirement List (TDRL) or Permanent Disability Retirement List (PDRL).
• You’re receiving retired pay, even if it’s due to a medical retirement.

Eligible Family Members Include:

• Spouses
• Unmarried children (up to age 21, or 23 if enrolled in college full time)
• Adult children with disabilities that occurred before age 21 (or 23 if in college)

TRICARE Plan Options for Retirees

Once you retire, your TRICARE options change from what you had on active duty. Here’s a breakdown of the available plans:

1. TRICARE Prime

• Who Can Enroll: Retired service members and eligible family members in Prime Service Areas (PSAs) in the U.S.
• Cost: Enrollment fees apply, and there may be copayments for certain services.
• How It Works: You have a Primary Care Manager (PCM) who coordinates your care and referrals. It’s similar to an HMO. If your family was enrolled in TRICARE Prime during active service, or you were a service member receiving care at a Military Treatment Facility (MTF), this is the same process.

2. TRICARE Select

• Who Can Enroll: Retirees and families worldwide (where TRICARE Select is offered).
• Cost: Annual enrollment fees and cost-shares (percentage of covered services you pay). No referrals needed, but some services require prior authorization.
• How It Works: You manage your own health care. You can see any TRICARE-authorized provider without a referral.

3. TRICARE For Life (TFL)

• Who Can Enroll: Retirees and their family members who are eligible for Medicare Part A and have Medicare Part B.
• Cost: No enrollment fee, but you must pay for Medicare Part B. TFL acts as a secondary payer to Medicare.
• How It Works: Available worldwide. Medicare pays first in the U.S., and TFL pays what’s left. Outside the U.S., TFL is the primary payer.

4. TRICARE Reserve Select (TRS) / TRICARE Retired Reserve (TRR)

• TRS: For actively serving National Guard/Reserve members (not retirees).
• TRR: For “gray area” retirees—those under age 60 not yet drawing retired pay. It’s a premium-based plan.

5. US Family Health Plan (USFHP)

• Who Can Enroll: Retirees and family members under age 65 in specific areas of the U.S.
• Cost: Enrollment fees and copayments, similar to TRICARE Prime.
• How It Works: Care is provided by a network of private providers. Once you turn 65 and become eligible for Medicare, you can no longer stay in this plan.

Dental and Vision Coverage

TRICARE Dental Program (TDP)

• Not available to retirees.
• Retirees can enroll in the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) for dental coverage.

Vision Coverage

• Retirees enrolled in a TRICARE health plan can also get vision coverage through FEDVIP.

What Changes at Age 65?

At age 65, you typically become eligible for Medicare Part A and Part B, and TRICARE For Life becomes your primary TRICARE coverage. You must enroll in Medicare Part B to keep TRICARE coverage.

Key Takeaways

• Enrollment Fees & Costs: Retirees pay enrollment fees and cost-shares, unlike active-duty members. These fees change annually.
• Open Season: Annual TRICARE Open Season runs from mid-November to mid-December, allowing you to enroll in or switch plans.
• Visit TRICARE’s Retired Service Members and Their Families page for up-to-date information, resources, and to check your eligibility or enrollment status.

The military community encompasses a very small percent of the entire United States population. That includes everyone that has ever served and their family members too. As a result, the civilian population might not be as privy to military culture and they may have some misconceptions about military families.

If you happen to be a civilian strolling around this part of the Internet, welcome! I’m glad you came and hope you have a chance to learn a little more about the military community because there are a few misconceptions that I hope to straighten out. I’m hoping I can stomp out any of your misconceptions and shed some light to what the military community really is like.

Here are 6 things that the general population needs to know about military families.

We get along with practically everyone.

I’ve heard around that military members tend to discriminate, but I think it’s a pretty big misconception. The military puts together all kinds of people from all different kinds of backgrounds to be brothers and sisters in arms. Despite the conflicts and challenges that our service members endure, they are very loyal to each other and their community. I believe this loyalty extends to everyone in their communities, military or not.

We aren’t nuts.

Military families tend to be patriotic because of the pride we have for our service members. I consider my husband my hero and I’m sure I speak for thousands of other military spouses when I say that. But, sometimes, our patriotic nature might be taken out of proportion and become another misconception. Just because I’m so proud of all the sacrifices that all our military members endure doesn’t mean I’m pro-war, if you know what I mean!

We don’t always live on base or post.

It is safe to say that a lot of us live inside an installation or in on-base/post housing, due to convenience and sometimes cost of living, but it isn’t for everyone. The misconception is that ALL military families keep to themselves and live away from the civilian population. On the contrary, there are a lot of military families living in civilian neighborhoods with lots of spouses working in civilian communities too.

We value our community on and off base or post.

Another misconception is that we tend to be loyal just to the military installation or military community. It happens that we relate to other military families because of the circumstances that we face, but that doesn’t mean that we don’t appreciate the community around us. I live off-post with my husband and have embraced the town we live in and take part by shopping locally and engaging in the community.

We are SO thankful for everything.

The misconception of military families being rich, needy or demanding is something I see from some mainstream media outlets. There are stories out there that we benefit a great deal financially from the military and other discounts…uh, I don’t even know where to begin with that. First thing, that misconception is the one I hope civilians understand as wrong. Facts and figures have been misconstrued and calculated in unusual ways to make it seem like we are gaining a lot monetarily. We’re not.

I wish I could do more for every business, organization and whoever else that has extended a helping hand to my family. I hope that they know their charity is being appreciated very much!

We are like any other family.

In this last misconception, big or small, military families are exactly the same as civilian families by being completely unique and different from one another, but still in the same boat.

I am truly convinced if you lined all of us up in a room (sans service member because, let’s face it, the haircut might give it away), a layperson would not be able to pick out the military family from the civilian family. With that being said, we all come from the same planet, so please don’t be afraid of us. Military families really want to fit in!

Which misconceptions have you heard about military families? Have you heard  anything that was absolutely false?

This is a previously posted article.

Summer PCS season is right around the corner and it is not too early to start to plan even before you receive those ever-elusive orders. I’ve always been super disorganized and looked with awe at my fellow military spouses with their PCS binders and elaborate coding systems for moving boxes. I even know one friend who tapes down the dimensions of a U-Haul truck on her floor and begins packing in plastic crates and loads them in her fake U-Haul until she packs the real one a few days before the move. It is really a genius system if you can be that organized. Here are a few tips for the less organized to help keep your sanity.

• Once you know your next duty station see what your options are for housing on post. If the waiting list is long you will need to consider other options. Rentals which will open for the summer are usually listed after the start of the year. The best ones will go fast. I personally do not like to rent sight unseen. What we typically do as a family is at Spring Break if it is close enough to drive to (about an eight-hour drive) we will go check out the new duty station as a family. If you must fly, my husband will spend spring break with the kids, and I will fly to the new location to check out schools and rental options.
• Important Documents. We don’t use a binder, we keep everything in a fire box and that includes birth certificates, social security cards, marriage certificate, car titles, and passports. You should know where everything is but for the less organized find them and pick a way to keep track of them. I like a firebox because it is difficult to lose.
• Start the PCS Purge. It is not too early to think about what you can get rid of. We have never gone over our weight limit by doing this. Consider getting rid of stuff in those boxes you have shipped every PCS move and never unpacked. Get rid of outgrown clothes and toys. Your local installation Thrift Shop accepts donations and profits are donated as community grants and scholarships. If you start early this doesn’t have to be stressful. I just do one room a week until complete.
• I tend to keep a well-stocked pantry. It is too early to stop grocery shopping, but I like to get an idea of what we have and to start planning to use it up prior to our move.
• Start thinking about how you want to move. We always use movers but a DITY move may be a good option for your family. If you have lots of stuff and especially if it is a cross country move it is just easier to have someone else do the packing and moving. PCS season is super busy so as soon as your spouse has your orders get into transportation to schedule your move. You will have better options and more likely to get the days you want.
• The Fun Part, dreaming about your new duty station and planning your trip. We always take the full amount of travel time authorized by the military and make it a fun trip. I get online and start reconning pet friendly hotels and activities. Having a pet does limit you but we still have managed to make fun trips. The goal is not to arrive at your new duty station exhausted.

I loved all 30 of my moves (yes, it is a lot, but I was a military brat, served 12 years and became a military spouse. Yes, there are challenges, but I love seeing and living in new places. So, take the time to do some pre-planning and a little organizing for a stress free move. What are your favorite PCS tips? Post below to share.

Marguerite Cleveland is a freelance writer who specializes in human interest and travel stories. Her military experience is vast as the daughter of a Navy man who served as an enlisted sailor and then Naval Officer. She served as an enlisted soldier in the reserves and on active duty, then as an Army Officer. Visit her website www.PeggyWhereShouldIGo.com

Previously posted article

Self-care is essential for military spouses, who often face unique challenges like frequent moves, deployments, and periods of separation. Balancing these pressures with personal well-being can be overwhelming, but with the right tools and strategies, military spouses can take control of their health in multiple areas—financial, physical, mental, and emotional.

1. Financial Health: Building Stability and Confidence

Managing finances can be a particular stressor for military families, especially when one spouse is deployed or away for long stretches. Building financial security and confidence starts with setting realistic goals and understanding available resources.

• Budgeting and Saving: A solid budget is essential for managing expenses, particularly when there are fluctuations in income due to deployments or relocations. Military families can benefit from tools like YouNeedABudget (YNAB) or Mint, which offer free versions of their budgeting apps. The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), an essential retirement savings vehicle for military members, also offers military spouses a way to plan for long-term financial stability, even during deployment.

• Military Financial Benefits: Take advantage of programs available through Military OneSource, which offers free financial counseling. Additionally, military families may qualify for discounts at stores like the Commissary or Exchange, which can help save on groceries and everyday purchases.

2. Physical Health: Staying Active and Energized

Maintaining physical health is vital for coping with the demands of military life. Regular physical activity improves mood, reduces stress, and helps combat the fatigue that can come with handling family responsibilities during deployments.

• Exercise and Fitness: Many military bases offer free or discounted fitness classes and gym access. Regular exercise doesn’t have to be intense; even a daily walk, a yoga session, or a bike ride with the kids can make a big difference. For spouses at home, try short at-home workouts using fitness apps like Nike Training Club or MyFitnessPal, which are accessible and tailored for different levels of fitness.
• Healthy Eating: Eating nutritious meals can help boost energy and manage stress. Utilize the Commissary for fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains. Check out websites like Once A Month Meals for inspiration and recipe ideas for busy schedules.

3. Mental Health: Cultivating Resilience

Mental health is one of the most important aspects of self-care, particularly for military spouses who often cope with the stresses of separation and frequent transitions. Cultivating resilience and finding ways to manage anxiety and stress is key.

• Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices like mindfulness and meditation can be powerful tools for reducing stress. Apps like Headspace and Calm offer guided meditation, breathing exercises, and even sleep stories designed to help calm the mind. These apps often partner with organizations like Blue Star Families offering a discount or free program.
• Journaling and Creative Outlets: Writing in a journal or engaging in creative activities, such as painting or crafting, can help process emotions and reduce feelings of isolation. A gratitude journal, in particular, can shift focus from challenges to positive aspects of life, helping build emotional resilience.

4. Emotional Health: Strengthening Connections and Support Systems

Emotional well-being is closely tied to our connections with others. For military spouses, maintaining strong relationships with family, friends, and support networks is essential for emotional stability, especially during tough times like deployments.

• Building a Support Network: It can be easy to feel isolated, but reaching out to others who understand the military lifestyle can make a big difference. Many military bases have spouse support groups or informal meet-ups. Additionally, online communities provide spaces for military spouses to connect, share experiences, and offer support.
• Quality Time with Family and Friends: Make time for meaningful connections, whether it’s a virtual chat with a far-away friend or a family dinner. During deployments, setting aside time for video calls or scheduling “date nights” with the spouse (even from afar) can help maintain closeness.

Taking care of yourself as a military spouse requires a balance of financial, physical, mental, and emotional well-being. The unique demands of military life often mean that self-care is put on the back burner, but by focusing on these areas, military spouses can better manage stress, strengthen resilience, and maintain overall health as the person “left behind” and often the sole parent. Utilizing available resources, creating supportive routines, and taking time to invest in personal well-being will not only make spouses feel more grounded during difficult times but will also contribute to a more fulfilling and balanced military life.

Winter wellness is crucial for military families, who often juggle unique challenges like unpredictable schedules amongst an already busy and unpredictable schedule as the holidays. Maintaining physical and mental health during the colder months and the holiday season ensures that families stay resilient and ready to face whatever comes their way. Want to stay safe, sane and healthy this holiday season? Here are some tips for you!

1. Stay Active Indoors

Cold weather can make outdoor activities less appealing, but staying active is essential for physical health. Many bases have gyms or indoor recreational facilities available to service members and their families, some are free and some with a nominal fee. Look for group fitness classes, family-friendly activities, or even free fitness apps that focus on bodyweight exercises you can do at home.

If you’re stationed in a particularly cold and snowy climate, embrace winter sports like skiing or sledding for family-friendly outdoor fun.

2. Focus on Immune Support

The winter season often brings an increase in illnesses like colds and the flu. Ensure everyone in the family gets their annual flu vaccine, if able, which is typically available on base or at local pharmacies for free.

Incorporate immune-boosting foods into your meals, such as citrus fruits, leafy greens, and yogurt. If you have little ones, use creative methods like smoothies or fun presentations to encourage healthy eating.

Don’t forget to remind everyone about the importance of frequent handwashing. When sneezing or coughing, don’t cough into your hand (because that touches doorhandles, food, and everything else), but cough and sneeze into you elbow. This shields those around you and lessens sharing the potential germs.

Vitamin D is critical to immunity building, so if there are warmer periods when getting outside is possible, soak in the sun while getting some vitamin D but also staying warm.

3. Manage Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Many people experience low moods during the winter due to reduced sunlight, and military families, particularly those stationed in northern or overseas locations, may be more affected. Combat SAD by spending time outdoors during daylight hours, using light therapy lamps, and prioritizing regular sleep patterns. The holiday season can also heighten stress for families separated by deployments; using video calls to connect with loved ones can help maintain a sense of togetherness.

4. Take Advantage of Military Resources

Military families have access to resources that can help with winter wellness. Programs like Military OneSource offer free counseling for mental health support. Base fitness centers often host wellness challenges or seminars. Check if your installation offers free or low-cost winter activities in the local area through the MWR or even the Information, Ticket and Tours (ITT) center.

5. Create a Winter Wellness Routine

Establishing a routine helps balance family life, especially during the busy holiday season. Incorporate time for self-care, whether it’s setting aside a quiet moment to read, meditating, or enjoying a hot bath. Encourage family members to join in with relaxing activities like watching movies or baking healthy treats. Planning your days with intention can prevent the holiday rush from becoming overwhelming.

This also includes self-care. Plan for everyone else, yes, but also prepare and plan for some downtime for yourself.