The Unseen Battle: Exploring the Impact of Military Deployment on Families
Military deployment is not only a challenge faced by the soldiers themselves, but also by their families. The toll it takes on family dynamics, mental health, and overall well-being is profound. In this blog, we'll delve into the multiple aspects of the impact of deployment on soldiers’ families, combat stress, resilience, effective treatments, family dynamics, stress during deployment, and the intricate reasons why some individuals facing unstable home situations may find solace in joining the military.
Every coin has two sides, and similarly, when a soldier is deployed it's not merely a journey for him but rather a collective experience their family members also go through. The relationships within a family are heavily affected when a loved one is deployed. The physical absence of a family member during deployment leads to emotional distance and strain, which leaves members longing for connection.
There is a constant fear of losing a loved one and the uncertainty of them never returning is an added stressor for the family. The anticipation of the deployed member's return can bring a mix of emotions. While there is joy in the reunion, there may also be challenges in readjusting to the presence of a family member who has changed due to their experiences during deployment.
Research consistently shows that deployment is linked to poorer mental health in military families. The strain of separation, uncertainty, and the constant fear for the safety of the deployed member take a toll. Children, especially, are vulnerable to the emotional upheaval caused by the absence of a parent. They often worry, becoming more fearful and sad during their loved one's deployment, perceiving the world as less safe and predictable.
Furthermore, the impact extends beyond emotional distress. Deployment has been associated with behavioural problems in children, a higher risk of divorce, and tragically, higher rates of suicide among military personnel. The stress experienced by families is multifaceted, ranging from emotional strain to financial difficulties, all of which can contribute to these alarming statistics.
While some relationships are resilient and able to weather the storm of military deployment, many face significant challenges. Communication hurdles and the stress inherent in military life can increase concerns about infidelity, introducing a new layer of strain. The fear of the unknown, coupled with the physical absence of a partner, may exacerbate worries about the stability of the relationship.
Military deployment not only challenges the physical endurance of our brave service members but also puts a significant strain on their mental and emotional well-being. Recognising the impact of deployment on mental health, effective treatments have become a critical component in providing support and healing for both soldiers and their families.
Soldiers returning from deployment often grapple with combat stress, and the effects ripple through their families. Understanding the symptoms is crucial; their children, for example, may exhibit anger, moodiness, and loss of interest in normal activities, and engage in risky behaviours like smoking, drinking, drug abuse, or early sexual activity. Recognising these signs is pivotal for timely intervention and support.
Deployment, which comes with stressors and uncertainties, can lead to a range of emotional challenges for military personnel. From anxiety and depression to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), the emotional toll can be immense.
Efforts to mitigate the impact of deployment stress on families include the implementation of effective treatments and support systems. These treatments recognize the unique challenges faced by military personnel and their families and aim to provide targeted support. Some key treatments used are psychotherapy and counselling. Individual and group counselling sessions provide a safe space for service members to express their feelings, fears, and experiences. Psychotherapy techniques, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), help individuals manage and overcome specific challenges associated with deployment and combat stress.
Furthermore, programs that involve families in the therapeutic process help strengthen relationships and provide a support system for both deployed soldiers and their loved ones at home. Many countries like the United States, also provide resilience training which equips service men to cope with the challenges of deployment and to adapt to civilian life.
The decision to join the military is often driven by a quest for stability in the face of life's uncertainties. Examining the broader context, it's crucial to consider why some individuals facing unstable home situations may find refuge in the military. Around the world, individuals are drawn to the disciplined and structured environment and a sense of belonging that military service promises that may be lacking in their civilian lives. The instability of their home environment may drive them towards the perceived stability and camaraderie offered by the military.
One of the primary reasons individuals enlist in the military is the promise of economic stability. In many countries, military service offers a steady income, benefits, and the assurance of a stable career path. For many recruits, especially those facing economic hardships, the military becomes a gateway to financial security. Countries like the United States, India, and South Korea witnessed a significant number of recruits motivated by the economic stability offered by military service.
Many individuals join the military to find a sense of purpose and belonging. The camaraderie and teamwork fostered in military environments create a support system that can be especially appealing to those who may lack a strong social network. Examples from countries like Russia and China showcase how the military becomes a community where individuals find a shared sense of purpose, contributing to a stable and cohesive society.
The decision to join the military for stability is a universal phenomenon that is common across borders and cultures. Whether motivated by economic security, a desire for discipline, a sense of purpose, or the need to escape instability, individuals around the world seek the structured and ordered life that military service promises.
About the Author
Anushka Banerjee, Member at the Psycreative Column, First-year student of BSc. Applied Psychology at SDSOS, NMIMS. She is a young writer and an aspiring clinical psychologist, whose pursuit for excellence only stops for coffee breaks. She is a Formula one fanatic and enjoys acting and reviewing movies. When not engrossed in reviewing films, you might find her doing rounds on the heavy bag or an athletic track. If you are a motörsport enthusiast and a gearhead consider her your best friend. You can contact her till 4am which goes to show that she is very approachable. She considers herself to be the poster child of optimism. She randomly quotes Eminem lyrics while speaking so there will always be a rhythmic flow while speaking with her.
References:
Effects of Deployment on Children & Families
How deployment stress affects family .
https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1150745.pdf
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