How Does a Loved One Being Away Affect My Mental Health?

How Does a Loved One Being Away Affect My Mental Health?

soldier leaving considers mental health in military families

Deployments can be difficult for military families both emotionally and logistically. While the service member is away, the family left behind faces a host of challenges in daily life. This can lead to stress, loneliness, and anxiety, which can have a negative impact on the mental health of the entire family. Mental health in military families can’t be overlooked—and at Peer Mental Wellness, you’ll find TRICARE mental health treatment coverage that can help.

Mental health treatment for military families can be a difficult process to navigate, especially when there is limited access. TRICARE provides access to mental health services that support the whole family, including individual counseling and group therapy. At Peer Mental Wellness, we provide holistic care that supports lasting recovery from mental health issues in military families. Our team of experienced clinicians works to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where our clients can heal and build healthier relationships.

Call 714.844.5473 or reach out to our team online today to learn more.

Deployment’s Impact on Loved Ones

The deployment of a loved one can be a significant turning point in a person’s life, and it can cause both positive and negative emotions. It can be difficult to deal with the loss of a partner, especially when you feel that your family will not be complete until he or she is back home. Adapting to living alone can be tough, especially if you are used to discussing everything with your partner. In addition, the responsibility of taking care of children and the household may lead to stress and overwhelm. It is common to experience anxiety, depression, loneliness, and sleeplessness during deployment, which can affect the mental health of the entire family.

Mental Health Concerns for Military Families

Deployment and separation can trigger a host of mental health concerns in loved ones. For children, this can look like:

  • Separation anxiety – Does your child have difficulty sleeping at night, seem clingy, or worry when you leave the room?
  • Behavioral issues – Are there sudden changes in behavior, such as aggression or difficulties in school?
  • Sadness – Are your children feeling lonely, isolated, or depressed when talking about the absent parent?

For adults, this can include:

  • Anxiety – Are you feeling overwhelmed by the responsibilities or worried about your partner’s safety?
  • Depression – Are you feeling down and unable to enjoy activities you used to find pleasurable?
  • Isolation – Are you feeling disconnected from friends and family or struggling to find meaning in day-to-day life?

If you’re struggling with any of these mental health issues, you’re not alone, and treatment is available that can help.

How Mental Health Treatment Can Help

The good news is that seeking help is the first step in managing any mental health concerns. Whether it is through medication, therapy, or a combination of both, mental health treatment can help individuals and military families navigate the challenges of deployment and separation. The process can be incredibly healing, and many people find comfort in speaking with a therapist or counselor who understands their unique situation. It is essential to note that TRICARE coverage can make mental health services accessible, which can help ease the financial burden during this challenging time.

Reach Out to Peer Mental Wellness for Mental Health Treatment for Military Families

Dealing with the deployment of a loved one is a challenging situation for many military families. The separation can impact your mental health. However, seeking help and support can make a significant difference in mental health and well-being. Through TRICARE coverage, mental health services can be accessible and affordable to military families who need them. At Peer Mental Wellness, we understand the unique challenges that military families face during deployment, and we are committed to providing support and assistance to help cope with the stressors posed by separation. Reach out to us today at 714.844.5473 or contact us online to get started.