The return from deployment is a long-awaited and rewarding time for any service member. They are able to return home to their loved ones with open arms, and finally relax. However many families and heroes are surprised to discover how difficult the transition from service to civilian life can be. To avoid difficulties and ease this transition period, here are the 3 of the biggest myths associated with returning from war:
1. The Transition is Seamless
Most service members and their families expect that life will be much easier after returning home, but that is not always the case. The constant feeling of being on edge while in combat can be difficult to turn off. The feeling of constant alertness is something that doesn’t automatically change with surroundings. Service members will have to learn how to feel safe and begin to trust others again. Communication is key here, both from service members and their friends and families.
2. If There is No Wound, There is No Injury
Even if you’ve returned from combat with no physical injuries, there are things you may still carry with you. The scenes from battle can sometimes stick with you and can be difficult to forget. Some service members have a particularly difficult time adjusting to civilian life and can develop some form of Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS) or other similar psychological health conditions. There is also the chance of having an unknown Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). With either of these invisible conditions, the longer they are left untreated, the harder they are to overcome.
3. No One Can Help
Upon returning home, many who have the symptoms of PTS or TBI may feel like they have to bottle their problems up, or that they have no one to turn to. While the help may be there, it might not be known to the service member. Instead of turning to potentially harmful self-medication, educating our service members and their loved ones about what options of help may be available is much more beneficial. Furthermore, they should know that it is courageous to ask for help.
As joyous as a homecoming of a loved one can be, these myths are prevalent, and can be true roadblocks for service members and their families.
If you would like to help, a donation to the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund helps provide the critical care that these service members need. With three Intrepid Spirit centers in operation and two others under construction, we can’t wait to continue our success with your help as we look to fund all 9 of our centers around the country.
Posted on October 2 2014 in Blog