Unspoken Disaster of Combat

Aside from those who make the ultimate sacrifice in combat in service to our country, aside from those who take their lives while in the grip of depression, there is yet an unspoken fatality from military service -- Military Families. For these past four weeks while here at Ft Campbell, I am most busy taking with soldiers and their spouses who are having difficulty reconnecting following deployment. Many are on the brink of disaster. These may be the tip of the iceberg as they say. Perhaps there are others who do not seek assistance and whose marriages dissolve, some with great pain. Seeking assistance for a troubled marriage, a marriage in crisis or a marriage on the brink of disaster is not a sign of weakness but of strength. Yours for Strong Marriages, Dr. D.

Reintegration

Reintegration is what the call the process of a soldier returning from combat and trying to fit in with the U.S. and their families. It is not easy. The challenges are sleeplessness, hesitant to engage others, unable to make connections or be open. It is happening repeatedly with hundreds of soldiers, some of whom I've counseled this week. But engaging others and forming intimate relationships are not just difficult for returning soldiers. It is a challenge for all of us. It takes a great measure of vulnerabilty and openness to actually connect with others without fear or defensiveness. However, the rewards outweigh the difficulties. It is essential that we give it our best effort. Call a counselor if you find it difficult. Yours, Dr. D.