Following military service, some veterans may struggle with reintegrating into civilian life. They might suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, or other mental health issues. These issues do not affect just the veteran but can have an impact on their families as well. Therapy for both veterans and their families can help them deal with these difficulties and readjust to their new life.
1- Providing an Outlet
Some veterans can find it difficult to discuss their problems with others, particularly with family members. Family members, in turn, may have fears and anxieties they are unable to express openly to the veteran. Therapy can give everyone the opportunity to talk privately to a professional in a nonjudgmental environment. A therapist can also facilitate group therapy sessions that include the veteran and their family.
2- Strategies and Treatment
New strategies can substantially improve the lives of veterans and their families. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy helps people learn how to redirect their thought processes. Therapy can also help in strengthening family relationships, giving individuals tools that improve their communication. A therapist can observe the family dynamics and determine what strategies would be most helpful between individuals and within families. Roleplay within therapy sessions can give veterans and family members the opportunity to practice these skills in a controlled environment.
There are certain therapies that are specifically designed to be used with loved ones. These include cognitive behavioral conjoint therapy, behavioral family therapy and integrative behavioral couples therapy.
Veterans may have found themselves in combat or other dangerous situations that resulted in trauma. There are a number of different therapies available that can help a veteran deal with this trauma. These can include approaches such as exposure therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, and various alternative therapies,
3- Reducing Divorce
It can be destabilizing within a marriage when a veteran is struggling with PTSD and other mental health issues. Getting help with those issues can reduce the likelihood of divorce. Furthermore, approaching therapy as a family concern rather than seeing a veteran’s mental health struggles as something that is only about them can improve the overall effectiveness of therapy. Veterans may be more likely to remain in treatment when the family is involved. A family approach helps the veteran to feel less isolated. At the same time, spouses and other family members may gain a better understanding of the veteran’s struggles.
4- Improving Parenting Skills
It can be difficult for parents to show up for their children when they are also facing mental health challenges. In some cases, traumatized parents may overburden their children with their own struggles, a process known as parentification. Children are not equipped to take on this role with their parents. Family therapy allows children to participate in family dynamics in a healthier way. It also provides the veteran with stress-reducing skills that allow them to parent their children more effectively.
Veterans face a number of unique mental health challenges that also affect their loved ones. However, therapy offers many approaches that can start to heal both individuals and their families.
