Teens are feeling enough stress in so many areas of their life. For teens in military families, this can be compounded by the deployment and frequent relocations that increase the toll in an already heated-up environment. Although the PCS has become an accepted reality, teens seem to have difficulties every time the order is served. For them, a PCS means saying goodbyes and long periods of separation.

A PCS usually brings about uncertainties. It can put a lot of pressure on kids, especially on teenagers. Even if your teen doesn’t say a word, you’ll see the feeling through his or her reactions: anger, resentment, and at times, severe actions.

What the PCS can mean to your Teen

One of the many challenges faced by military families is the PCS or Permanent Change of Station. It is a necessary and inevitable part of a soldier’s duty, and no matter how frequent relocation is, a PCS is always accompanied by a variety of emotions and situations. Generally speaking, the impact of a PCS is lesser in younger children. The biggest worry can be the teen members of the family.

With PCS come the issues of engagement, disengagement and reengagement. It can put a lot of stress on your teen who may feel life is out of control. In a way it is, because whether he or she likes it or not, the family is moving to a new place. As a child who grew up in mobility, it is not surprising if your teen demonstrates anxiety, irritability, and even aggression.

A study by the RAND Center for Military Health and Policy Research revealed that the effects of long and frequent PCS manifests in the form of social, emotional, or behavioral problems among children and teens at home and at school. Military teenagers, in rebellious retaliation, turn to drugs and engage in early sexual activities. For parents like you, it can be devastating if your teen child becomes part of this unfortunate fact.

Rallying for Help Your Child Needs

The PCS is an unavoidable part of any military family, and every member can’t do much but to face its demand. However, those demands may be more difficult for your teen child who frequently experiences relocation and repeatedly starts over again. At an age when his or her coping skills are not yet fully developed, your child is susceptible to surrender to the pressures caused by PCS.

This is the time to rally behind your child. Provide the best help you can give by seeking it from the independently contracted counselors of Carolina Counseling Services – Fayetteville, NC. Your child will benefit under the expert care of professionals who understand the issues at hand and who can provide the treatment needed. Call CCS to request an appointment and see the difference in how your child confronts the challenges of the next PCS.