Having a husband in the military can be very stressful. The fear of the unknown and not knowing how long he will be gone for can be frustrating. Remaining active and writing out thoughts on paper are just some of the ways to deal with the stress in a healthy way. No matter what branch of service you are in, there are some things that can be done that can help deal with the stress.
Step 1
Create a journal. Journaling is a great way to track your feelings and thoughts day to day. If you cannot talk to or physically see your husband because he is away on a mission or away from civilian telecommunications, journaling will allow you to say what's on your mind and also be a good source of comfort. Not only reflecting your feelings, but memories from the past and plans for the future can also be recorded in a journal. The journal can be shared with others, even your husband upon his return. This allows for intimate moments of reflection and personal growth.
Step 2
Generate a scrapbook. This is a step above journaling and can be used to incorporate more photos and creative talent into a memory book. Scrapbooking offers a sense of personal expression through paper, diet cuts, stickers and personalized art. Scrapbooks can also be healing as you go through photos and rekindle the moments you have spent together. It can also help to pass time and eventually become a lasting keepsake for many years to come.
Step 3
Rely on support from family and friends. This is especially important while a military husband is gone overseas. Family can help with household chores and home improvement projects. They can also help time go by faster by hosting family dinners and shopping days while the serviceman is gone. Friends, especially other military wives, can all offer support and companionship during lonely weeks or months.
Step 4
Send out letters frequently. This is just as important for the military wife as it is for the serviceman overseas. Letters can include newspaper clippings of local current or sports events or area activities. Writing letters is another way to get rid of loneliness through expression. Be creative and add poetry, personal reflection and prayer quotes if you are both religious.
Step 5
Compile a care package. This not only benefits the serviceman with well-needed goodies, it also helps to pass time and take your mind off of the loneliness by keeping busy. Pack a variety of nonperishable food items, Silly String for land mine protection, photos, books and personal care items.
Step 6
Learn how to pay the bills, contact the auto repair shop and fix minor home repairs around the house before he leaves. This will greatly reduce the stress that may arise when things break down that he would normally fix or know how to get repaired.
Tips and Warnings
- Avoid dwelling on how much time you have before he comes back. This can lead to added loneliness and stress. Spend some time talking about what he wants you to do should an emergency arise and he's not there. Share with family and friends that you will be alone. This will remind them to check up on you from time to time.
- If feelings of profound stress and anxiety arise, seek help and assistance from a professional psychologist or military counselor. Don't be afraid to reach out for help.
Things You'll Need
- Pen
- Journal
- Scrapbook and supplies
- Photos
- Envelopes, stationery and stamps
- Care package items
