J Foster an environment of preparedness, selfsufficiency, and “battle buddy support” during reintegration. J Encourage participation in Family programs and services, and remind Soldiers/Civilians and their Families that getting help signals courage, strength, and responsibility. J Establish a unit that ensures respect for all Soldiers/ Civilians, to include those injured or with mental health problems. J Identify at-risk issues and any inability to deal with tough challenges or sort out priorities—Encourage seeking help “at first signs of need.” Key findings: Stress related to recurring deployments, increased workloads, anxiety and depression may challenge a Families’ healthy reintegration. (4) Spouses and Family members of veterans experiencing PTSD are at increased risk for experiencing psychological and marital distress. (5) Soldiers and their Family members need to believe that it is okay not to live with the expectation to “maintain enduring strength” and hide their vulnerabilities, or need for support, but rather that it is better to take action and ask for support at the earliest indication. —Observation of spouses in counseling. (6)
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