A national survey from the Institute for Military & Veteran Family Wellness finds that military and veteran spouses experience higher rates of depression and anxiety than the general public — and that many are navigating those challenges largely on their own.
The survey reached more than 1,000 spouses nationwide. The most commonly reported challenge: finding community and friends. More than half of respondents — 53.2% — identified this as a concern, pointing to persistent gaps in social connection that can compound other stressors.
Employment, friendships and social support rounded out the list of top challenges.
Dr. Elisa Borah, director of the Institute for Military & Veteran Family Wellness, studies how support systems affect long-term outcomes for military families — including workforce stability, access to care and family well-being.
“These are the kinds of stressors that shape daily life,” Borah said. “Spouses are telling us they’re struggling to connect, to find support and to manage competing demands at home and work.”
The Institute conducts research, develops and tests programs, and shares proven practices that strengthen military and veteran families nationwide.