Deployment: When Families Adjust

Nobody gets used to watching a parent or spouse leaving for a deployment, particularly when they will be deploying to an area gripped with unrest. Aside from the emotional turmoil that military families can experience during deployments, there are many other ensuing changes you may need to face – before and during deployment, and upon return. The importance of adjusting properly cannot be underestimated; it could be considered the core strategy for military spouses and children in being able to manage the stresses effectively.

Planning for the Ensuing Changes

A deployment order may be something you dread as it means separation. From the day the order is received, you and your family may begin to prepare for the day. Aside from worrying about safety, there are pressing concerns you may feel you need to address so that functioning as a “single” parent in the duration may be less complicated. This could include talking to the children, asking for extra help, updating legal documents, planning activities, planning for possible emergencies, arranging for opportunities to stay connected during deployment, etc.

Parenthood and Deployment

Deployment can be particularly traumatic for young children who are unable to understand the reasons why a parent must leave for months on end. Their attachment to the parent can be disrupted, shaking their sense of security. This may have a negative effect on them – their social development, self-esteem and/or emotional health. The responsibility to create a sense of constancy and stability in the family is a responsibility that may feel forced upon you. You may feel that you are expected to adjust quickly so that you can in turn assist your family in adjusting. This may not be at all easy, especially when you may be living with a great deal of fears yourself.

Just When You’re Getting Warmed Up

It can be undeniable that your spouse’ safe homecoming is eagerly looked forward to. Yet, his/her coming home and subsequent reintegration into the family (and community) will be another period that can require adjustment. The family has grown to develop a routine without the parent in the military; you are used to making many of the decisions on your own, and the children may be used to just asking you for permission. While everyone may understand that reintegration can be emotionally-packed, making all the adjustments can trigger conflicts and misunderstanding as well as unmet expectations.

Help Yourself to Help Your Family

The process of deployment can entail a lot of adjustment. You may feel that everyone needs you to help them adjust to the changes in their lives. You may need to help yourself first in order to be the spouse and/or parent you wish to be. The emotional journey you are taking can exact toll on your emotional health. You too deserve comfort. At Carolina Counseling Services – Fayetteville, NC you can find the support that you deserve. A licensed, independently contracted therapists can help you through these adjustments. Call now and make these life transitions easier for you and your family.

Related Articles: