Flame Think, Inc.

Various military agencies emphasize deployed personnel undergo a “honey moon” period upon their return. This “honey moon period” is identified as the 90-days following redeployment. After this period, some military personnel experience readjustment issues. Some of these issues include:

1.    Unexplained mental fatigue
2.    Unexplained physical fatigue
3.    Inability to communicate with spouse, children or others
4.    Lack of intimacy interest
5.    Lack of fiscal responsibility
6.    Lack of interest in recreational activities

Interesting to note these are the exact things agencies inform military personnel and spouses to watch for during the “honey moon period.” When these things occur they should be dealt with the same way as one would during the “honey moon period.”

1.    Take time to regroup as a family unit which means it remains imperative to be patient with your friends, spouse and with children.
2.    Do not over-schedule your calendar with social events.
3.    Don’t force the military person to assume all house hold responsibilities.
4.    Continue communicating (both verbally, and physically), but do not attempt to force the military person to talk about war time experiences until he/she is ready to do so.
5.    Agree to establish and maintain accountability on the use of alcohol. Alcohol beverages were prohibited while deployed so the returning military person's tolerance is greatly reduced.
6.     Agree to limit the amount of time spent watching television, and utilizing the internet. These escape outlets tend to limit constructive communication periods.

Additional things to help the readjustment period include but are not limited to:

1.    Networking and connecting with other families with similar beliefs (religious and social), experiences and traditions. This form of family networking assists in coping with everyones' experiences.
2.    Networking and connecting with self-help groups and agencies. Social and professional helps establish an atomsphere of stability and support.
3.    Experiment with new challenges such as baking, cooking, or grilling. This can be especially therapeutic for individuals who need an anger outlet. Where else can you take out your frustration and be rewarded for it (via working/roughing dough for fresh baked bread, cakes, and pies)?
4.    Experiment with basic carpentry (mending the fence or repairing a hole in a wall) or gardening. Such activities assist individuals in focusing (cognition) on temporary projects and help family members re-learn team work through action and communication skills.

The readjustment period includes some times of frustration, anger and tears; however, it should not be a daily occurrence. Excessive pining, feeling hollow (empty) or constantly feeling depressed, or angry indicate deeper mental and spiritual issues. Additionally, mean-spirited arguing/back biting, rage and violent outbursts are indicators of serious emotional issues. When such occurs, professional help must be sought.