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Deployment stress: A simple solution

  • Published
  • By Capt. Craig T. Carper
  • 379th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  Deployments are often stressful for military members and their families. Tested relationships, strained finances, missed children's activities and important events, and separation from loved ones are what come with the territory for any deployment.

If this were not enough stress to manage, work hours typically increase, operations tempo intensifies, work-related conflicts develop, living conditions change, you can't sleep, the heat is blazing, monotony kicks in and the multitude of stressors can often be overwhelming.

Just as you think, there is no relief in sight, in steps your "simple solution," the 379th Mental Health team.

This expert team of professionals has a unique and extremely critical mission. Military mental health treatment focuses on helping people build on their strengths, acquire new skills, improve mission performance and lead more fulfilling lives.

"'An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure' is very true, and getting a handle on stress or other mental health concerns as early as possible is key to successful coping and maximizing performance," said Maj. Jennie Sheffield, 379th Mental Health officer in charge.

The services mental health provides continue to expand and are emerging as part of the militaries "whole-person development concept" commonly seen in the civilian sector. For example, most elite sports programs make use of the valuable contributions mental health can provide. Maj Sheffield explained, "Similar to athletic teams, people are the most valuable asset the military has, and we are dedicated to keeping our players in the game. We work with individuals and units to optimize performance."

One of the most challenging obstacles people face is acknowledging, or in some cases, recognizing signs of stress. Common signs of stress include sleep problems, changes in appetite, decreased interest, irritability, changes in energy levels & concentration, isolation, anxiety, and feeling overwhelmed.

"The best part of my job is to help someone who has these stressors going on in his or her life when they come through my door," said Staff Sgt. Seth Russell, 379th Mental Health technician. "Most likely they were struggling alone, but not any longer. We provide the resources and tools to help people get back on track or grow as a person. The patient is the mission, and helping them is what I love to do."

Recognizing the symptoms of stress and getting the help needed is an important step. The mission here is vital and knowing there is a dedicated team of experts armed with the resources to assist with setting personal goals, promoting resilience and taking care of oneself are key to having a successful deployment.

The 379th Mental Health team may be small in numbers, but their impact is measured by the compassionate service and "simple solutions" they provide. They ensure service members have the tools and resources needed to combat the stress of deployment and return home healthy, happy, and battle ready for the challenges he or she may face.

The mental health team offers individual appointments, outreach consultations for groups and units, response to traumatic stress, and prevention services centering on improving the quality of sleep, managing anger, and overall stress management. The office is stocked with donated items by non-profit organizations free to all military members.

The Mental Health team is available everyday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and located in the Coalition Compound in building 10088, next to Lodging. They can be reached at 437-8767.

Additional resources and services can be found at www.dcoe.health.mil, www.militaryonesource.mil and www.AfterDeployment.org.