TRICARE for Mental Health

Mental health challenges affect nearly one in four Americans—and among current and former military
members, that number is even higher. The emotional and psychological toll of military service can be
immense, and yet many individuals suffer in silence, unaware that help is not only available—it’s covered.

If you’re a military member, retiree, or family member, TRICARE may be your pathway to healing. As a TRICARE-authorized provider, Bridges of Hope offers compassionate, evidence-based mental health services tailored to the unique needs of service members and veterans.

What Is TRICARE?

TRICARE is the Department of Defense’s healthcare program for military personnel, veterans, and their families. Depending on your status and needs, there are multiple plan options—some with minimal or no out-of-pocket costs. The most common plans include:

● TRICARE Prime – For active duty members and their families; lowest cost, coordinated care
through military facilities.
● TRICARE Select – Similar to a PPO, with more flexibility in choosing providers.
● TRICARE Reserve Select – For Selected Reserve members and their families.
● TRICARE Retired Reserve – For retired Reserve members.
● TRICARE Young Adult – For adult children of eligible members.
● TRICARE for Life – Supplementing Medicare for eligible retirees.
● US Family Health Plan – Available in select areas, with exclusive provider networks.

Why Mental Health Care Matters

Too often, stigma or uncertainty keeps people from seeking care. But needing support is not a
weakness—it’s a sign of strength. Mental health treatment works, and TRICARE can help make it
accessible. Conditions like PTSD, anxiety, depression, and substance use disorder are treatable, especially when caught early.

What TRICARE Covers

Outpatient Services:

● Individual or group therapy
● Psychiatric evaluations and assessments
● Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs)
● Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs)

Inpatient Services Covered

● Acute psychiatric care
● Detoxification and stabilization services
● Psychiatric residential treatment for children and teens

Mental Health Emergency Services

● ER visits during a mental health crisis (must notify TRICARE within 72 hours)
● 24/7 support via the 988 Veterans Crisis Line

Common Mental Health Disorders Among Veterans

The most common mental health disorders among veterans are post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders.

PTSD is generally caused by one or more traumatic events that occurred while serving. Active duty service members often live through traumatic events, which is why nearly 25% of veterans who are cared for by VA services have had PTSD at some point in their lives. Symptoms of PTSD include flashbacks, severe anxiety, nightmares, and uncontrollable thoughts about the traumatic event or events.

Depression often occurs due to feelings of isolation after transitioning back to civilian life. Symptoms of depression include loss of interest in activities, persistent sadness, difficulty concentrating, and changes in appetite.

Anxiety is often caused by being consistently exposed to stressful situations while in service. Symptoms include constant worrying, restlessness, nervousness, difficulty concentrating, and rapid heartbeat.

Substance use disorders, which include alcohol and drug use disorders, are common as well, and often co-occur with other common mental health disorders among veterans. Bridges of Hope is a TRICARE authorized provider offering several treatment options for substance use disorders.

This list is not all-inclusive, so if you are suffering with symptoms that don’t fit these disorders, you should still seek mental health care. Everyone responds differently to the extreme stress and trauma associated with military service, so reach out for help no matter what you’re struggling with.

In Closing

Serving in the military is honorable, and the people who do so deserve the utmost respect. However, service sometimes comes with a price in terms of mental health. The most important things to remember are that you are not alone, and that help is available.  If you do not have TRICARE, call to find out your options. Getting coverage can be your first step on the road to recovery.