Holidays A Time of Stress for Service Members and Families

The holidays can be a time of stress for any family, but particularly so for families affected by deployments or those who have lost someone in theater.  Separation at this special season is particularly difficult and the feelings of loss can intensify into emotional issues that impact functioning and your ability to relate to your family.
 
The Mental Health Self Assessment Program is an online mental health screening program available 24/7 at http://www.militarymentalhealth.org/.  It is taken anonymously and is designed to help families address emotional issues by letting them walk through a self-assessment and connect with support and treatment services provided by the DoD and VA.

Family support organizations and programs are urging use of the program.
"Families and service members can take advantage of this anonymous assessment tool," says Tanna Schmilidi, Chairman of the Board/CEO, National Military Family Association. "This is a beneficial, easy-to-use instrument that allows individuals to confidentially take an online self-directed assessment for depression, alcohol disorders, PTSD, and anxiety disorders."

The Mental Health Self-Assessment Program is funded by Force Health Protection and Readiness, Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense, Health Affairs

Other tips for battling the season's sadness:

1. Don't expect the holiday season to be perfect.

2. Set spending limits and stick to them. If you are feeling down, spending money in the long run is not a good remedy to cheer oneself up.

3. If you have suffered a loss lately or have a loved one away from home, dampening your holiday spirit, be honest with other people about the way you feel. They will respect your feelings if you express them and understand why you might decline certain invitations.

4. Create a space and time for yourself during your get-togethers. Take a walk outside or just find a quite corner in the house. Run to the store for something you "need" if that is the only way to get a few minutes alone.

5. Continue healthy eating and drinking habits. Alcohol is a depressant and can make a sad, down mood worse and can interrupt your natural sleep cycle.

6. Plan your shopping and cooking in advance so that you don't do it all in a rush and become completely exhausted. Share the preparations with others as much as possible.  If someone offers to help, let them. Let them wash pots, bring a side dish, or help wrap presents.

7. Talk to someone.  Seek support and affirmation of how your dreams and wishes for the season aren't always in concert with reality. Once you share some of the holiday mishaps you may find they are funny in hindsight. A good listener and a good laugh are great stress relievers.

8. Get physical. Keep up your exercise regimen or at least go out for a walk.

Contacts:
Joelle Reizes, Screening for Mental Health, Ph: 216-593-0313
DoD Force Health Protection Strategic Communications, Ph: (703) 578-8548