Finding Strength Through Peer Support
Marines are built to stand strong, but even the strongest among us face challenges that can feel overwhelming. Seeking help—whether dealing with substance misuse, problematic gambling, sexual assault, domestic abuse, or thoughts of suicide—and reaching out to a peer can make a powerful difference.
If there are concerns about a fellow Marine, listening and offering support can have a meaningful impact. Peer support means connecting with someone who understands what it’s like and listening without judgment.
Those in need of support are encouraged to reach out to a trusted friend, such as a fellow Marine, co-worker, or friend. Talking about difficult experiences is often the first step toward working through it. Speaking up helps break the silence surrounding tough issues and encourages others to do the same.
If the next step is unclear, assistance is available through an Operational Stress Control and Readiness (OSCAR) team member. OSCAR teams—made up of trained Marines, mental health professionals, and religious ministry personnel—are embedded within units to help prevent, identify, and manage stress before it becomes overwhelming. Their mission is to keep Marines resilient, ready, and supported.
Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) programs to help manage stress:
- Personal Financial Management Program for money issues
- Marine Corps Family Team Building to build skills to with your peers through classes such as Stress Management, Five Love Languages, Anger Management, Stronger Relationships with Prevention & Relationship Enhancement Program, and more
Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) also offers confidential services, including:
- Family Advocacy Program (for families impacted by abuse or neglect)
- Substance Assessment and Counseling Center (for substance misuse or gambling concerns)
- Community Counseling Program (for general counseling needs)
- Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC) (for confidential support related to sexual assault or harassment)
You can also reach out to a military and family life counselor or connect with Semper Support for free virtual counseling.
For additional information on local support, visit: https://www.usmc-mccs.org/news/24-hours-7-days-a-week-of-constant-support.