Deployment is part of every servicemember's contract. It does not always mean that he or she will be placed in danger, but it does mean that the servicemember will be apart from his or her family for a time. Though deployment is undoubtedly a challenge, there are steps you can take to make the time easier for your family.
1. Communicate
This is the most effective way to make deployment less stressful for you and your family. They will likely want to know where you will be stationed, how they can communicate with you and how long you will be gone. Be sure to stay as informed as possible so you can share unclassified information with your loved ones. The more they know, the less they have to worry about.
2. Plan
Will you need to sell things before you leave? Should your family move to a smaller house while you are overseas? These are just a couple of the questions you should consider before you leave. You will also need to set up a convenient time to talk with your loved ones while you are gone. Planning can help take some of the stress out of your deployment.
3. Prepare your finances
You do not want to leave your loved ones with a frustrating financial situation. Alert your financial institutions of your deployment. Also, plan out a monthly budget and discuss a bill payment schedule. Some financial institutions and loan providers offer leniency for military servicemembers, so be sure to inquire about them.
4. Arrange for child care or elder care
If you have children, it is smart to arrange child care before you leave for deployment. This is especially important if your spouse will be working while you are gone. It can save your spouse hassle later on. Additionally, if you have elderly loved ones whom you look after, you will need to plan for their care during your deployment.
5. Have an emergency plan
Just like life, deployment can be unpredictable. Having an emergency plan in place can alleviate stress when situations like illness, injury, loss of communication and others are tossed at you.
6. Make memories
The weeks before deployment are likely going to be busy and hectic, but take some time to de-stress. Have a few family meals and take a short trip you have been planning for a while. The memories will help your loved ones when they start to miss you, and they will likely carry you through some of the lonely moments in your deployment. Check for places that offer military discounts so you can save money while you enjoy yourself.
While deployment will most likely be difficult for you and your family and could present you with unforeseen challenges, the above steps are just a few of the many that can help make it less stressful. Preparation and planning for life's unpredictability and having a plan can make deployment a little easier for you and your loved ones.