It is common for a military service member to come home emotionally badgered by too many negative thoughts and feelings having seen and experienced tragic events. They need and deserve attention. Equally affected and deserving attention are their families that may feel just as troubled and struggling with so many emotions, exacerbated by the “ripple effect” of the what is going on with the returning service member. Often, family members are ignored thinking that everyone will move on and “get over it”. In certain cases they do, but a number may experience continued emotional crisis following the feeling of tragic loss or significant change.

What may seem to be harmless or minor symptoms with a family member, can lead to serious emotional and psychological crisis when left untreated, causing more serious problems such as substance abuse, dysfunctional behavioral changes and possibly even self-harm.

Spot the Signs

How would you know if, by ripple effect, a family member is deeply affected by the life changing instances and on the brink of an emotional crisis? Knowing the child or the spouse, it is easy to spot certain changes in behavior and habits. One symptom is losing interest on things that used to matter to this family member. This may make the spouse or child neglect their appearance and hygiene or show signs of not caring about things they used to care about. The family member may manifest social withdrawal or exhibit moodiness. Sleeping patterns may change because of bad dreams, or may oversleep to avoid the reality that wakefulness brings.

Sudden changes in behaviors are more apt to be noticed by the family and those who have close associations with this person. The more worrisome symptoms are those symptoms that develop gradually until symptoms become worse. It is best to allow a therapist intervene before distress, grief, anxiety or fear becomes an emergency situation.

The Professional Intervention

Knowing that military families who go through distressing experiences are susceptible to emotional crisis, you must be on guard about the symptoms each member exhibits. It will help if you can keep him/her talking and sharing thoughts and working through feelings. Just lending an ear and keeping the person company may help, but may not be good enough. If symptoms are rather severe, professional intervention may be needed. Professional help is the best kind of care you can give a family or family member who is obviously struggling with an emotional crisis.

The advanced training of a licensed therapist is most important assistance needed to nip the emotional concern before it reaches level of a crisis. Carolina Counseling Services – Fayetteville, NC has expert therapists specialized to assist military family members or families going through depression and emotional crisis.

If you suspect your loved one is gripped with so much grief, guilt, fear, anxiety and depression, let Carolina Counseling Services – Fayetteville, NC help this family member rediscover peace of mind and a fulfilling life; call or text us.

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