Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and peer support for military families during deployments are key tools for staying emotionally strong and connected throughout the challenges of military life.
Deployments are a tough time for military families. Through my own experience, I’ve learned how demanding they can be. The impact reaches both our service members and the families who support them. The absence of a loved one can bring a mix of emotions, from loneliness and anxiety to stress and uncertainty. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions, and sometimes, it feels like we’re just trying to survive. But I’ve learned that focusing on our mental health and well-being is key to not just surviving, but thriving, during these times. Whether you’re an introvert or an extrovert, there’s something for everyone, and utilizing peer support and social-emotional learning (SEL) can be a game-changer in getting through deployments.
Peer Support
The military lifestyle is unique, and there’s nothing like talking to someone who “gets it” and understands what you are going through. Sharing experiences and offering and receiving advice is what peer support is all about. Not only that, but peer support creates a safe space and reduces feelings of isolation, letting you know that you’re not alone. When it comes to peer support, I suggest the following:
- Join a Local Spouse Group (In-Person or Online)
- Go to FRG Meetings
- Get Involved More to Stay Connected
By doing these things, you will be able to build a village that will be able to support you when time gets hard. Trust me there will be days during deployment where routines will be missed, and you just need to vent, it’s imperative to have a community of your own you can rely on to hold you up while your loved one is away.
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)
Social-Emotional Learning is about understanding and managing our emotions, showing empathy, and building positive relationships. During deployments, our emotions can be all over the place. Practicing SEL can help us navigate these feelings with grace. For instance, when I’m feeling overwhelmed, I take a step back to identify what I’m feeling – is it anxiety, loneliness, or frustration? Then I try to understand why I’m feeling that way and consider how I can respond positively, especially towards my kids. The best thing about SEL is that it’s for everyone!
For Adults
- Self-awareness: Recognize your triggers and emotional responses.
- Self-management: Develop coping strategies like exercise, meditation, or hobbies.
- Social Awareness: Understand and empathize with your family’s feelings.
- Relationship Skills: Communicate openly and resolve conflicts constructively.
- Responsible Decision-Making: Make choices that support your well-being and your family’s.
For Kids
- Books and Activities: Use appropriate age resources to teach them about emotions.
- Open Communication: Create a safe space for them to share their feelings.
- Modeling: Show them how to manage their own emotions in healthy ways.
Coping Strategies & Advice
- Stay Connected: Regular communication with your deployed loved one is vital, but also connect with friends and family at home.
- Establish Routines: Maintaining a sense of normalcy can be comforting, especially for kids. Keeping busy makes the time go by faster and takes your mind off of deployment.
- Self-Care is Key: Make time for activities you enjoy, whether it’s reading, hiking, or just relaxing.
- Seek Professional Help: Don’t hesitate to reach out to a therapist or counselor if you’re struggling. IT’S OK TO NOT BE OKAY….
Resources
There are resources available to provide support for military families. Military OneSource is a great place to start. They offer counseling services, information on deployment support, and resources for managing stress. The USO and other military support organizations also provide programs and services that can help us stay connected and build resilience. Remember, taking care of our mental health is not a luxury – it’s a necessity. When we’re strong, we can better support our service members and our families. So, let’s lean on each other, tap into peer support and SEL, use the resources available to us, and make our well-being a priority overall, but especially during these deployments. We’ve got this!
About the Author
Mary Monrose is a Navy Spouse of over 16 years. She and her husband have three children, DJ, Amirah, and Felix. Mary currently works as a Deputy Clerk at a Juvenile & Domestic Relations Court and is the Advocacy & Outreach Support volunteer for Partners in PROMISE. Mary also has a podcast called Shine Sis, where she and her co-host empower military spouses and like-minded women to find their purpose in life. Mary holds a Master of Arts in Law, a Bachelor of Arts in Justice Administration, and an Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies. Mary is a passionate advocate who enjoys helping others amplify their voices.
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