Change is constant in military life, and one of the most difficult adjustments families face is separation during deployments and trainings. Ashley Jensen, LMFT, Senior Manager of Clinical Practice at Cohen Veterans Network, shares practical strategies to help families navigate these transitions.
Bloom military teen, Brynne, and CVN Therapist, Keith, discuss managing separation from loved ones due to military service.
Navigating Behavioral Changes
Deployment-related stress often leads to increased challenging behavior in children and teens. These behaviors may include increased irritability, regression in younger children such as bedwetting or clinginess, academic struggles, defiance such as tantrums or resistance to authority, sleep issues, social withdrawal or physical complaints such as headaches or stomachaches. These are common and understandable reactions, as deployments disrupt normalcy. One of the most effective ways to help children cope is by providing structure:
Tip: Maintain consistent routines for a sense of stability and predictability. Keep an updated calendar and remind kids what’s next in the day or week.
Fostering Connection
Despite potential communication challenges, proactively establish ways for children and teens to connect with the deployed parent. Get creative with it! During those times when communication is infrequent, consider these strategies:
Tip: Keep photos of the deployed parent visible and talk about them frequently.
Tip: Encourage children and teens to keep journals documenting their daily experiences and emotions, which can be shared with the deployed parent upon their return. This can also be a valuable activity for the at-home parent and the deployed parent!
Building a Strong Support Network
Parenting during a deployment is challenging, and building a strong support system is crucial. Connections can provide valuable support and alleviate feelings of loneliness for kids as well as parents. Consider these ways to stay connected and supported:
Tip: Seek out friends, social groups, and community activities to stay engaged and reduce feelings of isolation.
While military separations can be challenging, families can take proactive steps to navigate them. By maintaining routines, fostering connections, and building strong support networks, parents can help their #MightyMilitaryKids adapt and cope with the changes that come with deployments and training.