Moving due to PCSing, being sent far away to train…the list could go on and on. There are many factors affecting the military family but none more than deployment. Partners are separated, kids often wonder about their parent’s well-being, and loved ones miss out on so much during these times. However, with a little work and the right strategies, military families can bond and become closer than ever following deployment.Suggested read: VA Family Caregivers Can Now Appeal Eligibility Decisions

Acknowledge and Express What You’re Feeling

One of the biggest issues facing the military family after deployment is the complex emotions that are present. It’s important to acknowledge and express these feelings to build stronger bonds and establish trust.Understand that it's normal for both you and your partner to experience a range of feelings, including nervousness and concern, as you navigate the transition of having everyone back home.The effects of deployment on military families are largely psychological and by accepting these emotions, you can better foster a home that is both understanding and capable of providing support moving forward.Patience is key for the military and family but you shouldn’t suppress your feelings either.Maintain open lines of communication and seek support from trusted confidantes if needed, whether it's a friend, family member, or counselor.Programs that facilitate communication can enhance the well-being of you and your partner while contributing to smoother reintegration.When dealing with the effects of military deployment on families, the issues may be complex and involve multiple members. Regardless of the size of your family, addressing your feelings openly and honestly is essential.Related read: Leaving the Military: Does My Family Hate Me Now That I Don’t Deploy

Give Your Military Family and Yourself Time to Adjust

If you’re openly communicating the impact of deployment on military families with your loved ones, you’re on the right track.However, you’ll also want to listen to concerns, make appropriate adjustments, and give yourself time when doing so.Members of military families reintegrating from deployment must set realistic expectations. While one member may be eager for a grand reunion, your partner or loved one may need more time to readjust.This is where communication once again comes into play. For some, planning extravagant celebrations is the right move. Others may wish to simply focus on being together with their partner and getting into a routine.Continue to encourage open communication with loved ones about what everyone needs to help facilitate a service member’s return.It’s important to also limit alcohol consumption and to be mindful of spending habits during this time as the military deployment effects on families can lead to self-destructive habits if left unchecked.Beyond reconnecting, you’ll also need to remember to take time to adjust to new roles and responsibilities as a family. This can range from splitting chores with your partner to disciplining kids, etc. Meshing together is going to take time.

Look at the Positives - Past, Present, and Future

While the problems facing military families and deployment are unique compared to the civilian world, they are also a place that can help foster stronger bonds.For example, if you and your partner have overcome adversity and are there for one another during trying times, your bonds will grow all that much stronger as a result.Positivity is key, and this isn’t a call to fake like everything is okay. Life will provide trials that come and go.However, looking to the good times, the resilience of overcoming the demands of military life, reuniting, etc., can all help build unity within your family.Realistically, seeing the brighter side of life is much easier said than done at times. Mental health issues can hinder positivity for partners and create barriers.But making an effort is important and if you look hard enough, chances are, you’ll find something to be thankful for and enjoy even if you’re feeling down.You can start building these positive memories and standards before the end of deployment. However, it’s also important to look at positive moments that are ongoing and those yet to come for your family.

Understand You’re Not Alone

The issues faced in the aftermath of military family deployment are unique within the community, however, you are far from alone.Studies have shown that around 20% of military families have issues stemming from deployment. Of these, 33% reported the psychological effects of deployments on military families being an issue.Children and partners alike deal with a lot while service members are off defending our nation, and the feelings don’t simply go away just because deployment is over.From stigmas to a lack of understanding about resources, feeling alone can harm military families who may not ask for help. This is an important component both in formal and informal settings.

Utilize Professional Help

Again, seeking professional help can help military families open up communication, create plans to move forward as a unit, and address both mental and physical issues that can result from serving.This includes the following:

• Psychologists to address mental health issues as an individual.
• Family counselors who focus on helping partners and/or kids reconnect as a unit.
• Physical therapists and doctors can help service members overcome the harsh treatment of service on one’s body.

You’ll want to use a professional that is knowledgeable and discreet, particularly for issues involving your household.For example, if you’re dealing with ED that is affecting the relationship with your partner.It’s never the most comfortable topic but thanks to the discreet, understanding team at Rugiet Ready, you can enhance intimacy in your relationship with a safe, trusted team by your side.ED treatment should be personal and with Rugiet Ready, it’s confidential while also personalized.Your medication keeps you ready as it works in 15 minutes or less but that’s hardly the end of things as it lasts as long as 36 hours.Featuring three active ingredients backed by science, there are four combinations available to help you find the right mix for your needs.The sacrifice of service often leads to comorbid physical and mental health issues, which triggers ED. Studies show that it’s a common issue four times more likely to affect the military community.Fortunately, science has shown it’s also treatable.Jumpstart back from deployment by contacting the healthcare professionals at Rugiet Ready, who are committed to helping the military family reunite the right way.Read next: How to Motivate Yourself to Workout When Depressed – Tips for VetsThis article is the result of a paid collaboration with Rugiet Ready.Sources:

1. Returning From Deployment: Helping Your Family Transition, Military OneSource. Accessed March 2024. https://www.militaryonesource.mil/deployment/reunion-reintegration/returning-from-deployment-helping-your-family-transition/
2. How Military Families Respond Before, During and After Deployment, RAND. Accessed March 2024. https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_briefs/RB9906.html
3. Reunion and Reintegration – 9 Tips for Single Service Members, Military OneSource. Accessed March 2024. https://www.militaryonesource.mil/deployment/reunion-reintegration/9-tips-for-reintegration-after-deployment/
4. The Impact of Military Service on Family Dynamics, NVHS. Accessed March 2024. https://nvhs.org/the-impact-of-military-service-on-family-dynamics/
5. The Effects of Military Deployment on Family Health, PRB. Accessed March 2024. https://www.prb.org/resources/the-effects-of-military-deployment-on-family-health/
6. Science Resources, Rugiet Ready. Accessed March 2024. https://rugietmen.com/science.html