Use Available Tools and Resources
Military financial stress can be handled from many angles. It’s important to manage day-to-day stress that may be only temporary but is also out of your control. As a United States military member or a family member living on or near the base, you have access to the gym and exercise equipment. Make time for a daily workout, as exercise is a healthy way to alleviate stress and burn off excess worry.
If you’re overwhelmed, you can also participate in the Military and Family Life Counseling Program through Military OneSource by calling (800) 342-9647. This free, non-medical counseling is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, from anywhere in the world. If you just need someone to listen, this is an excellent resource.
Military families can also create personal and family budgets with the help of military-based tools. You can learn how to track expenses, live within your means, reduce your costs, and save during deployment with the information provided by Military OneSource financial tools.
Train for a New Career
Bringing in additional income is another effective way to reduce the stress from mounting expenses. This can prove problematic for military families who might be transferred geographically with little notice — unless the spouse takes advantage of MyCAA or the My Career Advancement Account Scholarship.
The Department of Defense will provide $4,000 in increments up to $2,000 per fiscal year to pay for a license, certification, or associate degree for employment in a new occupation or industry. Portable careers focused on healthcare or information technology, which are highly in-demand industries worldwide, can get started through online courses with MedCerts. This online school works with military spouses interested in pursuing new opportunities to help balance the family budget. Additionally, since their programs are online, they can be taken from anywhere you’re stationed and are flexible to fit in your schedule with no set class times.
Stay Positive: Good Efforts Can Pay Off
Even with so many benefits available to military spouses, financial stress can sometimes feel overwhelming. Remember to breathe deeply and stay positive: Together, your family can create a plan that will improve your financial health and future with the support of all of America behind you.
