What are Military Dependents?
The concept of military dependents has been around for centuries, and yet it remains a critical aspect of the military life. A military dependent refers to the spouse, child, parent, or sibling of an active-duty service member. The term is often associated with the notion of responsibility and sacrifice that comes with serving in the military.
Who is Considered a Military Dependent?
In most cases, military dependents are direct relatives of an active-duty service member. These include:
- Spouse (regardless of whether they are married by blood or marriage)
- Biological or adoptive children
- Step-children (if legally adopted)
- Parents or step-parents (if they live with the service member or rely on their support)
- Siblings (full, half, or steps) who live with the service member or rely on their support
- Full-blood or adopted grandchildren if their parents are unmarried
- Unmarried or divorced offspring with disabilities, who reside with the service member
- Unborn children due to be born during a period of temporary or indefinite service
Contents
Federal Benefits and Entitlements for Military Dependents
**The Department of Defense (DoD) recognizes the contributions of military families and extends various benefits to dependents, including:
• Education Benefits:
- Educational assistance under the Montgomery GI Bill or Post-9/11 GI Bill
- Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) Program
- Survivors’ and Dependents’ Education Assistance (DEA)
• Healthcare Services: - Medical coverage through Tricare Prime or Tricare Extra (based on priority needs and financial situation)
- Counseling services through the TRICARE MHS-N
• Commissary Benefits: - Authorized to purchase groceries, personal care items, and household supplies at discounted prices at military commissaries worldwide
- Available for eligible spouse, unmarried dependent children under 26, and qualified retired spouse
• Housing Assistance: - Subsidies for rentals, mortgage relief, or cash assistance (depending on income and dependency status)
Challenges Faced by Military Dependents
Coping Mechanisms and Supports
• Invisible Wounds: Dependants often endure separation anxiety, deployment-related stress, and mental health challenges caused by the extended periods of deployment, military lifestyle changes, and uncertainties
• Financial Pressure: Rising medical expenses, family relocations, and reduced employment opportunities contribute to a heightened financial burden
• Educational and Professional Limitations: Educational expenses and career restrictions can be a constant worry for those seeking education, training, or promotions
• Emotional Well-being: Feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and perception of low priority in the lives of family members can further exacerbate these challenges
Preventing and Reducing Strain on Military Dependents
Important Tips and Reminders for Service Members
• Communication:
- Regular, honest, and open discussions with dependents about impending deployments, plans, and challenges
- Prioritize technology-based connection, such as video conferencing, and routine letters from deployed loved ones
• Leave Time: - Take advantage of compressed leaves (e.g., 7- to 10-day leaves every 2 weeks) during long deployments to spend time with dependents
- Plan regular Homecomings with advance notification and coordination with dependents
• Family Resources: - Engage with local community services, support groups, and healthcare resources to support dependents during deployments or challenging situations
- Encourage self-care activities and exercise routines within families to combat stress
• Prioritizing Resilience: - Prepare for departures with clear roles and responsibilities within the household
- Foster an atmosphere of trust, teamwork, and resilience within families to better withstand the emotional challenges of military life
