Three Things Military Wives Should Know
A Few Ideas for Military Wives
By no means am I the absolute authority on the matter, considering I'm still learning myself! Nevertheless, throughout my journey, I've been asked many many times, "How do you do it? Being a Marine wife?" My answer always begins the same: IT IS NEVER EVER EASY. But more thoroughly, I've learned a thing or two that has helped me tremendously, kept me sane, and kept my marriage healthy.
Know what Resources are Available to You...
...and USE THEM. Putting aside all arguments revolving around the government, members of the military are, for the most part, well taken care of: being offered benefits ranging from health care, educational grants, as well as discounts...and on more than just groceries! For more in-depth info, simply google 'military benefits' and click on whatever branch desired.
Connect in the Community
I cannot stress how important this is. Seeking out friendships within the military community provides a network of support beyond belief. It's always beneficial to have friends that know EXACTLY what you're going through, be it a deployment, or late duty, moving from base to base, you name it. Having such relationships will not only strengthen you as a person, but also helps you cope with the stresses in being a military spouse.
Know how to Function Alone...
...within reason. Many civilians do not experience what military families do on a regular basis...separation, deployment, intense training that requires their loved ones to be gone for long periods of time. Someone once told me that one of the best ways to stay sane during these times is to be able to function without them. That means not only going back and forth to work, but also finding hobbies and good activities to keep yourself busy. Again, within reason. Be cautious that whatever it is won't totally consume your life, always keeping in mind that your loved one will be home, so that time can be spent together.
I'm always getting advice from people who've been a member of the military family; I'm still growing and getting accustomed to my own lifestyle. Nevertheless, the advice I've been given, I feel, should be passed along, so that other's journey's will (hopefully) be made a little easier.
Comments
AUTHORCommunication is terribly important, and unfortunately, I'm sure it's pretty rare or even non-existant at this point. Be patient. If necessary, talk with a counselor or a pastor. If this is your first deployment (as well as his), meet with other spouses who have already weathered the same kinds of issues. And should you have the opportunity to email or talk with him, no matter the issue, let him know that your marriage is important to you. He is in a difficult situation, and the added stress on both of you is counter-productive. Whatever the problems you all are having, talk with someone you trust and will give you counsel that will improve your marriage, even while he's gone. I hope this helps! Hang in there, and good luck!
Thanks for the advice...I've been married to a Navy man for two months now...he left for a deployment and now we are having problems...Any advice about that?
Really good advice, for all military spouses.
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