Getting Real With Shadra Bruce
As a mother whose son has served 4 of his 7 years in the military overseas, homecoming is something we’re anxious for. With so much time away, though, adjusting to his presence – whether for short visits or when he’s out permanently – will be a challenge. It’s even tougher for married couples who have been separated for a length of time. Reintegrating as a family can be extraordinarily difficult.
We have all seen the happy reunions of families during the holidays, but what happens after the reunion is over? For many men and women it’s the beginning of a new struggle, the struggle to put their families back together again, and it’s not easy. Military divorces have increased 42% since 2001, and that number is sure to increase with the number of servicemen and women returning home from Afghanistan.
There are many organizations dedicated to helping military families adjust to the unavoidable challenges of reunion. Below are links to organizations that can help you and your family.
http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/
http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/returningservicevets.asp
