Having a loved one in the military can be a challenging experience, both for the service member and their family. The military lifestyle has its own set of challenges, including numerous relocations, extended periods of absence, and the strain of deployments on the family unit. As a family member or friend, offering support and help to your loved ones in the armed forces is important. This guide will provide some essential tips for supporting your loved ones in the military.
Stay Connected
Staying in touch is crucial to show your support for a loved one serving in the military. Maintain consistent contact through phone conversations, video chats, and written correspondence. Show them you care by letting them know you’re thinking about them.
Be Understanding
Military life can be unpredictable and challenging, and it’s important to understand the unique challenges your loved one may face. Be patient, flexible, and supportive, and try to understand their perspective.
Offer Practical Help
Offering practical help can go a long way in supporting your loved one in the military. Offer to help with tasks such as childcare, errands, or home repairs while they are away. This can help ease their stress and provide them with peace of mind.
Attend Military Events
Attending military events such as homecomings or deployments can show your support and appreciation for your loved one’s service. It can also allow you to meet other military families and build a support network.
Educate Yourself
Educating yourself about military life and the challenges that your loved one may face can help you better understand their experiences. You can read books, attend workshops, or join online support groups to learn more.
Send Care Packages
Sending care packages can give your loved one a piece of home and show your support. Consider sending their favorite snacks, books, or personal care items.
Offer Emotional Support
Military life can be emotionally challenging, and offering your loved one emotional support is important. Listen to their concerns, offer encouragement, and let them know you are there to support them through difficult times showing your support for loved ones in the military can be as simple as displaying a marine corps flag in your home or car.
Advocate for their Needs
Advocating for your loved one’s needs can ensure they receive the support and resources they need. This can include advocating for healthcare, education, or financial benefits.
The Ups
Strengthening Relationships
Supporting your loved ones in the armed forces can strengthen your relationships. It can create a deeper bond between you and your loved one as you both navigate the challenges of military life together. It’s a great way to meet other families in the military and form a community of support.
A sense of Purpose
Extending support to your loved one serving in the military can give you a sense of purpose. Knowing that you contribute to their success and well-being can give you a sense of fulfillment and meaning. It may also provide you with a chance to serve your nation in a new way.
Increased Empathy and Compassion
You may gain a better understanding of the challenges that military families face and develop a greater appreciation for the sacrifices they make. This can lead to greater empathy and compassion towards others in your life.
The Downs
Mental Health Challenges
Military life can affect the mental health of the service member and their loved ones. Mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), are not uncommon among military personnel due to the stress of deployments, the anxiety of danger, and the effects of military trauma.
Limited Control Over Decisions
When your loved one is in the military, you may have limited control over decisions that impact your life, such as where you live or how often you can visit family and friends. This lack of control can make it a challenging experience.
Emotional Toll
Supporting your loved ones in the military can take an emotional toll on you. The fear of your loved one being in danger or the stress of separation during deployments can be overwhelming. Take care of your mental health, and seek help if needed.
Conclusion
There are advantages and disadvantages of having a family member serving in the armed forces. By staying connected, being understanding, offering practical help, attending military events, educating yourself, sending care packages, offering emotional support, and advocating for their needs, you can provide your loved one with the support they need during their service. Remember to be patient, flexible, and supportive, and let your loved one know you are there for them.
