12/20/2018
It’s that wonderful time of the year, right? Not necessarily for the military families. It can be tough to be away from family during this festive season. Both deployed and families at home have a difficult time as well as those who are not stationed stateside. At Eielson AFB we recognize how difficult it is to live in Alaska’s tough winters, as well as being away from your loved ones.
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Deployed service members may experience a range of feelings such as loneliness, depression, homesickness, frustration, stress or guilt. Family members at home experience loneliness, wishing their service member were home, and worry, especially if they are deployed, making it difficult to enjoy the holidays.
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Here are a few tips to help keep a strong sense of connection to loved ones while separated during this time of the year:
1) If you have a service member deployed or stationed far away, start collecting items to make a care package. Make a goal every week or every pay period to add something. It creates something to look forward to!
2) Write a letter. It can be simple as saying ‘Hello’, and talk about your day to day activities to give them a sense of what it’s like at home. It may make them feel as if they are a part of it!
3) Schedule some FaceTime; in 2003 those deployed in Iraq may have been lucky to get a 15-minute call home, if they were even able to get connection at all. Thanks to advances in technology, connecting with families today are easier with programs like Skype or social media. Being able to actually talk and interact with loved ones in real time can help relieve separation anxiety.
4) Record special events they may miss such as graduations, birthdays, and anniversaries. It’ll make them feel like they are a part of the celebration.
5) Share a family tradition (or create a new one!) with your neighbors or a few friends you’re stationed with.
6) Get involved in volunteer opportunities in your community as this can be emotionally and spiritually rewarding.
7) Recharge your batteries; reduce stress through exercise, go to the movies, or spend time with others who are also separated from their loved ones.
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Dealing with separation from loved ones at ANY time of the year poses difficulties. Give yourself permission to FEEL. Don't be afraid to talk with others about feelings of loneliness or missing a family member. In Alaska it is easy to isolate yourself especially in the winter. The best thing you can do is let go of the "perfect" holiday, find ways to get out, connect with others, and not forget what the holiday season is really about – gratitude and making memories with those around you. Remember to utilize your support and resources that are available here on Eielson AFB. Mental Health, FAP, the Chapel and MFLCs are ready for you if you need. Happy Holidays!
