Tips for Supporting Your Family During Deployment

Deployment is a significant event for military families—and it can be challenging, whether this is your first experience or one of many. The emotions, logistics, and adjustments involved can feel overwhelming. However, with thoughtful preparation, a strong support system, and effective coping strategies, your family can meet these challenges. And at Cohen Veterans Network, we’re here to help along the way.

Below, we share a few practical tips for navigating deployment, from pre-deployment preparations to managing the separation and its everyday emotional impacts.

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Pre-Deployment Preparations

The lead-up to deployment is often fast-paced and filled with to-dos. From legal paperwork to discussing routines, these weeks can be stressful. Taking steps now to prepare emotionally and logistically can make a big difference once deployment begins.

Create a Checklist

Part of deployment preparation includes finalizing essential paperwork like Wills, Powers of Attorney, and Family Care Plans. If you have kids, childcare arrangements can be top of mind – consider discussing co-caregiver roles with nearby family or friends. Check out MilitaryOneSource’s Plan My Deployment Checklists for additional guidance.

Strengthen Communication

Clear communication with your spouse or partner is key. Before deployment, discuss expectations and schedules—like how often you would like to (and realistically are able to) talk and which communication methods (email, letters, calls) work best. Remember, this can change beyond your control, but starting with open communication can help bring you both on the same page.

Map Out Your Support Network

Identify people and resources you can rely on. This might include trusted friends, extended family, and military support groups. Staying connected to other military families or your spouse’s unit can also help provide updates and emotional reassurance. You don’t have to face deployment alone.

Build in Stress Management Strategies

Managing deployment stress is easier when you have strategies in place. Start by writing down go-to coping mechanisms. Whether it’s exercising, journaling, meditating, or spending time outdoors, list activities you know help you de-stress. Next, determine when you would actually use these coping strategies? Schedule consistent time to care for yourself. Even just ten minutes of journaling or getting some fresh air can make all the difference.

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Coping with Time Apart

Once deployment begins, separation from your loved one can be difficult for spouses/partners and children alike. Every family member will cope in their own way, but being proactive and leaning on resources can help. Below are a few resources with tips to help manage the distance:

• Managing Military Separations: Tips for supporting kids emotionally through deployment.
• Combating Loneliness for Couples: Suggestions for staying emotionally connected during long-distance separations.
• Staying Connected During Holidays: Ideas for celebrating meaningful moments apart.

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Support at Cohen Veterans Network

At Cohen Veterans Network, we understand the range of emotions and challenges military families face during deployment. That’s why we provide comprehensive support tailored to your needs. Whether you need counseling, practical tips, or a listening ear, our team is here for you.

Our experienced clinicians specialize in military life, offering mental health care designed to support your and your family’s well-being.

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