Growing up as a military kid comes with its own set of unique challenges. Frequent relocations, parental deployments, and uncertainty can take a toll on teenage mental health. High school, already a stressful time, can become even more overwhelming. So, how can we help our fellow military teens identify mental health struggles and ways to support their well-being?
The Invisible Wounds
Military kids often struggle with:
Anxiety: Constant relocation and uncertainty about the future can create persistent worry.
Depression: Feelings of isolation, loneliness, and disconnection from peers and community.
Trauma: Exposure to parental deployment, combat stories, or stressful home environments.
Identity formation: Struggling to find stability and self-definition surrounding constant change.
I felt very shy at the beginning of every move. It was difficult for me to open up and make friends quickly. I turned to sports that create a community of teamwork to make socializing much easier.
The Impact of Parental Deployment
When a parent deploys, military kids experience increased stress and emotional distress. Studies show:
Increased anxiety and depression: Kids may feel abandoned or worried about their parent's safety.
Sleep disturbances: Difficulty sleeping due to worry or fear.
Academic struggles: Harder to focus and maintain grades.
It is very common for military kids to become more anxious while their parents are deployed. I found it comforting to talk to my school counselors about any extra stress I was feeling and how it was affecting me academically and socially.
Breaking the Silence
Military kids often hesitate to seek help due to:
Stigma: Fear of being seen as weak or vulnerable.
Loyalty: Not wanting to burden parents with their concerns.
Fear of being judged: Worrying about peers' reactions.
Support Systems
Breaking the silence requires:
Open communication: Parents and caregivers encouraging kids to express emotions.
Mental health resources: Access to counselors, therapists, or support groups.
Peer connections: Joining military kid communities or online forums.
Resources
For military kids, families, and teachers:
Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC) - mental health resources
Military OneSource - counseling services
Give an Hour - free mental health services
Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) - support for grieving military kids
Milteen Experience Reports - annual surveys and reports by Bloom and the National Military Family Association, focusing on mental health findings and more
Military kids' mental health struggles are real and valid. By acknowledging their challenges and providing support, we can help each other heal and thrive. Let's break the silence and surround these heroes with the care and understanding they deserve. Military kids are resilient and strong but don't forget that it is okay to not be okay. Reach out for help if you need it! There are always other military kids who understand and are ready to help. The Bloom community sees you. You are never alone. Remember that you serve too.
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