Returning home after deployment can be a joyful time for service members and their families, but readjusting back to a normal routine can also be challenging for many. Service members may find themselves continuing to be affected by the stress they experienced during deployment. Signs of problems include feelings of boredom or detachment from their work, and alienation from family and friends. Others may experience feelings of guilt or depression.
If you experience difficulty after reintegration, consider seeking help. Support groups can be an excellent way to connect and share your feelings with others who are experiencing the same thing; and a professional counselor can show you techniques for coping with your emotions.
Although it may be hard to prepare for challenges of reintegration, taking these steps prior to and during the process can make the transition easier for you and your family.