FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Hillary Angel
Phone: (909) 390-1239
E-mail: hangel@wilkinguge.com

HOW TO MENTALLY COPE WITH MILITARY DEPLOYMENT

San Diego, July 24, 2007 –  As members of the military are being deployed, families may have trouble adjusting to the absence of a loved one. Military life can strain relationships, escalate stress levels, and create economic hardships.

Families should prepare before and after deployment, as several stages of emotions may occur, including sadness, fear, anger, loneliness, and jealousy,” says Bruce Fountain, a Redlands-based licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. “Acknowledge that deployment may challenge relationships and lifestyles, but reassure one another and express how much you look forward to the reunion.”

The California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists offers tips on how to cope with a loved one’s departure:             

• Minimize exposure to the media. Watching war-related news programs may increase anxiety and fear.
• Remember your loved one. Keep a symbolic representation of the deployed member visible.
• Communicate with your children. Acknowledge their worries and encourage them to express their feelings.
• Gain a sense of control. Maintain routines, keep social commitments, and stay involved with your community, church, or school.
• Keep in touch with your loved one. It is important to keep communication personal with regular phone calls, written letters, photos, and mementos.
• Find support. Locate a support group or plan events with other military families.
• Make a difference. Volunteer or get involved in an activity that is meaningful to you.
• Write it down. Maintain a journal of daily activities and feelings.
• Take care of your mental health. Maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and avoid substance abuse. 

“High levels of emotions may overwhelm a person’s sense of control and may lead to mental illness,” Fountain commented. "Seeking professional help for assessment and treatment can help individuals and families learn how to cope and maintain healthy, normal patterns."

A Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) is trained to assess, diagnose and treat individuals with mental heath conditions including but not limited to, anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress. To learn more about mental health or to locate a Marriage and Family Therapist, visit www.TherapistFinder.com.

About CAMFT
The California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, with 27 chapters throughout the state, is an independent professional organization, representing the interests of licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. CAMFT provides www.TherapistFinder.com as a resource to the public looking for Marriage and Family Therapists located in California. For more information about CAMFT, please call (858) 292-2638 or visit www.camft.org.