By Dr. James Bender, Psychologist, who recently returned from Iraq after spending 12 months as the brigade psychologist for the 4-1 CAV out of Ft Hood. He served for four and a half years in the Army. During his deployment, he traveled through Southern Iraq, from Basra to Baghdad and many spots in between. He is a subject matter expert at the Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury (DCoE).
First off, I want all of us to take a few moments this Memorial Day to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country. These heroes died defending and protecting our freedom and should not be forgotten.
The warriors of present face the same kinds of issues as warriors of past. In today’s world however, we know more about the human mind and the importance of military members being both physically and psychologically fit.
This is clear as we witness some of the challenges that servicemembers are experiencing as a result of repeated and lengthy deployments. Giving you tools to stay mentally fit while you are downrange is vital.
We all have problems and stress. And if you’re deployed, you have more stress than most people. Dealing with it in a positive way will help to both prevent future mental illness and make you a stronger person. Deployments have a way of putting everything after the experience into perspective.
For example, when things get stressful at work, I tell myself “at least the temperature is less than 130 and no one is shooting at me.” That usually makes me feel better.
Dr. James Bender, Psychologist, Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury. Photo Courtesy of DCOE.
DCoE uses the word “resilience” a lot. We define it as a set of actions and attitudes that prepare individuals and groups for adapting to challenging situations; establishing a “new normal”; and realizing one’s potential for growth. I like to think of it as being able to “roll with punches” or having the ability to be flexible and not be completely overwhelmed by the problems in your life.
Psychologists are doing research on resiliency and have come up with some specific things you can do to stay mentally tough while you’re deployed:
- Exercise. This will lower your blood pressure, help you sleep and increase your energy. It will also increase blood flow to the brain and literally make your brain work better.
- Make friends and be social. Don’t go back to your CHU and watch movies or play video games alone. Be social with the people around you. Also, keep in touch with people back home through email, mail or phone calls.
- Talk to people when things bother you. There is a difference between telling people your problems and constant complaining. No one likes a constant complainer, but you should have someone you can talk to if things get tough. Your chaplain, mental health officer, NCO, or battle buddy are some great options. Sharing is really important.
- Think about the advantages of deployment. It is a truly unique experience and something you’ll remember forever. You’ll forge some of the most profound relationships of your life. What you experience there will grant you tremendous skill and perspective in dealing with problems and issues throughout your lifetime.
- Take care of yourself. Stick to a regular sleep pattern and eat regular, healthful meals as much as possible.
Thank you for your efforts and stay future-focused. There are people here who support you and are working on your behalf.
This post was shared with us by the Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury . The DCoE Blog features information on psychological health and traumatic brain injury issues as well as personal stories and reflections from people within the military community on these topics.
