By Ashli King - LPC and NNC
November is Military Family Month—a time to honor and celebrate the contributions, sacrifices, and resilience of families who stand alongside service members. Military life can be both rewarding and challenging, with frequent relocations, deployments, and periods of separation placing unique demands on service members and their families. For active military personnel, the stress of fulfilling their duties while being physically separated from loved ones can take a significant emotional toll. Spousal resilience, in particular, is crucial in navigating these challenges, and incorporating intentional support systems and therapeutic techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can enhance family cohesion and overall well-being.
Understanding Active Military Support and Spousal Resilience
Resilience is the ability to adapt and thrive despite adversity, and military spouses and active service members alike often demonstrate this quality in remarkable ways. Active duty personnel rely on their families to maintain a sense of normalcy and emotional connection while facing the demands of their roles. Research highlights the importance of community support, positive coping strategies, and strong communication skills in fostering resilience among military spouses. Similarly, service members benefit from knowing that their families are equipped with tools to manage stress and maintain stability during their absence.
Factors such as optimism, resourcefulness, and connection to a support network contribute significantly to resilience within military households. Building resilience is not just about surviving adversity; it’s about thriving in spite of it. Spouses can strengthen their resilience through intentional practices, including seeking mental health support, engaging in mindfulness, and building a strong sense of purpose within their unique lifestyle.
Strengthening Family Bonds
Fostering family cohesion is essential for maintaining stability and connection in military households. Families can strengthen their bond by establishing meaningful rituals, such as weekly video calls during deployments or special meals after reunions, which create a sense of normalcy and continuity. Open communication is also crucial; regular check-ins allow family members to share feelings and concerns, addressing stressors collaboratively.
Active military members benefit when their families are emotionally supported and engaged in a network of resources. Tapping into the military community for emotional support and practical advice can help families navigate challenges together, while practicing gratitude fosters a positive and appreciative dynamic, even during difficult times.
Military spouses, often the backbone of these families, play a pivotal role in managing households, raising children, and providing emotional stability amid uncertainty. Spousal support—both within the family and through resources like counseling, peer groups, and community programs—is vital to ensuring they feel valued and empowered.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Techniques for Military Families
CBT is a proven therapeutic approach that helps individuals reframe negative thoughts and behaviors. For military families, it can be an invaluable tool in improving communication, managing stress, and fostering emotional regulation. Specific CBT-based techniques include:
● Cognitive Restructuring: Encouraging family members to challenge negative thoughts, such as “I’m always alone during deployments,” and replace them with more balanced perspectives, like “Even though it’s hard, I am strong and capable of managing this time apart.”
● Behavioral Activation: Promoting engagement in meaningful activities, such as volunteering, joining military family support groups, or pursuing hobbies, to combat feelings of isolation and create a sense of accomplishment.
● Mindfulness Exercises: Practicing mindfulness can help spouses and family members stay grounded during stressful situations. Simple techniques like deep breathing or guided meditation can reduce anxiety and improve emotional regulation.
● Communication Skills Training: Deployments and relocations often strain communication. CBT techniques like “I” statements and active listening can help family members express their needs without blame or judgment.
Conclusion
Military Family Month is an opportunity to celebrate the resilience, strength, and dedication of military families. By fostering spousal resilience, supporting active military members, and utilizing techniques like CBT, families can build stronger connections and adapt to the unique challenges of military life. Let’s take this time to honor these incredible families and ensure they have the resources and support they need to thrive.
Reference:
Schulenberg, S. E., Lawrence, T., & Steger, M. F. (2015). Military spouses’ perceptions of their resilience. The Professional Counselor, 5(4), 529–543. (https://tpcjournal.nbcc.org/military-spouses-perceptions-of-their-resilience/)
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