As military personnel in today’s world, it can be difficult to be away from home, family, and friends for prolonged periods of time. Even during deployments, soldiers can find a sense of camaraderie in their fellow service members to draw strength and comfort from. But what if a soldier finds themselves unexpectedly isolated – be it through a natural disaster, a redeployment, deployment to a distant location, or other unforeseen circumstances? The answer to this can be found in our guide below.
Reconnect with Family
Keeping family close is vital for any deployed soldier. And for those in unexpected isolation, contact with family can bridge the emotional and physical divide; making sure family members are supported is key. Make sure to take the time to check in with them and let them know that you’re safe and well.
Reach Out to Other Soldiers
Sometimes, even those who are in the same branch of the military can feel disconnected. Make sure to stay connected with other military personnel, even those outside of your current rank. Whether through group chats or calls, reaching out can create a sense of comfort knowing there are others who understand your situation. With this in mind, make sure to reach out to those who may be more isolated than yourself.
Find a Positive Outlet
Coping with isolation can be difficult, and it’s important to find an activity or hobby that will bring a sense of peace and purpose. Whether it’s reading, running, playing an instrument, or any other activity, it may provide a sense of comfort and help combat the loneliness of being isolated from support networks.
Seek Professional Counseling
When in doubt, reach out to a professional. Military counselors are trained to help soldiers cope with the unique challenges of their job, and may be able to provide invaluable guidance. Even if the isolation is short-term, professional counselors can work with you to address an individual’s needs and create a plan for the future.
Final Thoughts
Isolation can be a difficult situation for any soldier, but there are steps that can be taken to ensure comfort and security. By staying connected to family, reaching out to fellow soldiers, finding a positive outlet, and seeking professional guidance, soldiers can find ways to cope with their situation and come out stronger than before.