For most people, the holiday season is the most wonderful time of the year. But for military families, it can feel like the worst time for a PCS. While your immediate family is still together, it means leaving behind friends and other loved ones and spending the holidays in a new, unfamiliar environment.

Embracing the Holidays as a Military Family

Whether a PCS occurs over the holidays or not, can be a challenging ordeal for military families. Being uprooted from a comfortable, familiar home with memories from previous happy holidays may make the stress feel amplified. This transition may cause you and your family to feel nostalgic or sad during the holiday season.

It is important to remember that the holidays can be enjoyed regardless of where you and your family live. Even if you can’t replicate the traditions and experiences from your previous duty station, your family can always try something new to make the holidays just as enjoyable as last year. But if you or a family member feels persistently lonely or depressed about celebrating the holidays in a new place, seeking counseling may offer benefits.

Getting through the Holidays with Help

Although the military provides resources to support your family, you may want to consider other options, like a counselor. If you have recently had a PCS this holiday season, consider how a therapist can help you get through the emotions you are feeling. It might feel overwhelming to be processing these feelings, combined with the stress of this time of year. Having a therapist, you can talk to about it all can be helpful.

Call Carolina Counseling Services – Fayetteville, NC to request an appointment. Our independently contracted counselors can offer the support you need to enjoy this holiday season in your new home!