One of the key reasons the US military can respond to threats and disasters is its ability to quickly deploy veterans. Military deployment may happen to a combat zone or overseas, in each case leaving behind an overwhelmed spouse and family.
As of 2023, nearly 1.3 million active-duty military members have been deployed. A vast majority of the veterans serving in the deployed branches either go to Iraq or Afghanistan.
As a military spouse, you know full well the bitter pain of separation. Sometimes, the thought of a homecoming can be too exciting but it’s reality a bit nerve-racking. Wondering how to take good care of your spouse post-deployment? Fret not, as this article will discuss three ways to extend care.
Have a ‘Getting to Know You Again’ Period
The period of deployment can greatly vary depending on factors like location, mission type, active duty status, and more. In general, it can extend anywhere from 90 days to 15 months.
Even in the case of 90 days, it can be difficult to bond instantly. After a week or two, you begin to create a fixed routine without your spouse. Naturally, there would be times you missed them and even felt frustrated having to do life without them.
If you’re with children, it can seem taxing and lonely to play the role of both parents. Gradually, you learn to make it work but the moment for your spouse’s homecoming arrives. As excited as you may be to see them again, the initial moments or even hours can seem a bit awkward.
Just know that it is perfectly alright. To shorten this phase, you can consider having a ‘getting to know you again’ period. Even if you may not need this, your kids may. They undergo rapid growth spurts and may find it challenging to reconnect with their father/mother after a long break.
Take a day off from work if you can and organize a mini family reunion luncheon or dinner. The dining table is a fascinating spot where the magic of communion usually takes place. Sit down with your family and allow your spouse to share their anecdotes, experiences, etc.
Ask questions that you may have suppressed all these months. Let the children also relish the presence of both parents. There is great power in communication, to the extent that it is the most in-demand professional skill in 2024.
Don’t underestimate its power to rekindle your relationship. Plan a family day out or any indoor fun that everyone enjoys. Get to know your spouse again with enthusiasm and make them feel at ease.
Take Special Notice of Their Mental Health
Military service scarcely comes at a cheap cost. Your spouse has likely experienced or witnessed high-risk situations involving violence, ethical dilemmas, and deaths.
The austere environments in which our brave veterans must work can have untoward psychological effects. Stay on the lookout for any signs of trauma and get them professional support as early as possible.
This does not mean you must openly disclose the subject, at least not the day they return from deployment. Just be aware of the common signs of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which include –
- Distressing flashbacks or nightmares of the combat zone
- Avoiding people or places that may trigger traumatic memories
- Getting easily startled or showing hypervigilance and anxiety
- Experiencing insomnia or obstructive sleep patterns
- Social withdrawal and staying away from friends and family
- Facing concentration issues
- Experiencing physical reactions like an increased pulse or heart rate, muscular tension, sweating, etc.
- Resorting to alcohol or drugs to numb the trauma
If you notice a combination of these symptoms in a routine manner, it’s time to contact the experts. Mental healthcare providers and their team of nursing professionals can help your spouse readjust their life. Extended care is often offered by nurses, who provide interpersonal support, help with reintegration, and divert attention.
Due to a growing demand in this profession, many nurses have switched from other fields in search of more meaningful work. Through 12-month accelerated nursing programs, online education and learning experiences have made this possible.
According to Online ABSN Programs, mental health nurses coordinate with other counselors and specialists for all-around care. They will even educate the patient on techniques of rehabilitation and self-care for better outcomes.
With the right support, your military spouse can recover within a few months. In some cases, it may take a year or longer to heal but that’s still better than facing the consequences of neglect and unaddressed psychological issues.
Make Them Feel Needed at Home
This somewhat takes us back to the first point. During your spouse’s deployment, you’ve adopted ways of doing life by yourself. If the deployment extended over a year, you could have even become confident about parenting alone.
Now that your spouse is back, it can be difficult to get accustomed to life with them. You may go about your day like you normally do, which could make your spouse feel left out. Undoubtedly, they may admire your courage and ability to handle everything smoothly.
Keep in mind that they wish to feel like a significant part of the family too. Find little ways to involve them in your family’s daily routine. Be intentional about asking them to help with the laundry, grocery shopping, or simply arranging the dinner table.
Even if they’re facing PTSD, find ways to encourage them in their healing journey. Organize fun activities like family cleaning or cooking to prevent triggers. Offer them your full emotional support and attention to help them heal faster.
The veterans’ homecoming week is just around the corner, starting from November 5th. An annual celebration to honor the men and women who serve our nation will be held in Branson. This city is considered to be one of the most patriotic, veteran-friendly cities in the US.
As per the Pew Research Center, around 6% of America’s adult population comprises veterans. Is your spouse one among them? Then, we’re sure you’re proud and eagerly anticipating the upcoming reunion. We hope this article has helped you understand ways to extend the post-deployment care your spouse deserves.
