Military families carry unique dsm burdens — often invisible to civilian society but real and significant.
DSM Challenges Unique to Military Families
- Deployment separation: Repeated separations create attachment disruption and anxiety for all family members
- Reintegration: Return from deployment requires major readjustment, often triggering dsm
- Frequent relocation: PCS moves disrupt social supports that protect against dsm
- Secondary trauma: Living with a service member with PTSD or dsm creates secondary psychological impact
Children in Military Families and DSM
Military children are resilient but face significant dsm risks. School changes, parent absence, and exposure to parent's dsm all require specific support.
Resources for Military Family DSM
Military OneSource, Military Family Life Counselors (MFLC), and installation behavioral health services provide free or low-cost dsm support for military families.