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By Kristine Dwyer, Staff Writer
Armed Forces continue to be prepared
for lengthy overseas deployments, often serving
multiple or extended tours of duty. This has
created unparalleled stress and trauma; not only
on those who serve, but also on their families
during these deployments and upon their returns.
Families make tremendous sacrifices so that
these men and women in uniform can provide
military service and advance the cause of
freedom throughout the world. Families are also
a vital support system to these service members
and their roles cannot be underestimated.
When service members go to war, the nuclear and
extended families also “go to war” and are
impacted by the outcomes. Unfortunately, combat
can result in severe injuries, disabilities and
casualties. Many veterans have now returned home
to thousands of families who face daunting
challenges and may be unprepared to care for
them. Lives are altered and rearranged at all
levels to care for the physical injuries and
emotional needs of loved ones. Many of these
family members, including children, experience a
change in their roles and have become
“caregivers.”
Fortunately, in this day and age, caring for our
military members also includes tending to the
well-being of their families and caregivers. A
multitude of programs and resources are now
available or are being developed to assist our
Armed Forces members as they return to duty or
civilian life and to assist their family members
as they face new roles and expand their capacity
to provide care.
Family Transitions and Support:
Upon a veteran’s return from the battlefield,
the entire family will go through a period of
transition that includes restoring trust and
wholeness in the family circle. This is the most
important time frame to seek support and gain
knowledge about the changes and difficulties
that may be present.
In recent years, the VA (Veterans
Administration) identified a six-phase “Cycle of
Reintegration.” The phases also directly involve
and impact caregivers and family members as the
veteran reunites with them.
Phase One: “The Honeymoon”:
elation and joy, relief and celebration
Phase Two: “Disillusionment”:
role changes, life at home doesn’t feel the
same, pace of life is different, new stresses
may emerge
Phase Three: “Alienation”: no
one “gets it,” “I want to go back,” risk of
drug/alcohol abuse, frustration, boredom, feels
distanced from the military routine and comrades
Phase Four: “Engagement”:
intervention by the family, motivation to
change, counseling / support groups, return to
work, seek new routines and connections
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