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John Call
John A Call Ph.D., J.D., A.
Depression

Coming Home From War

Returning home from a war zone can be tough.

Returning to "normal life" after being in a war zone is seen by too many as a quick and painless transition. In reality coming home can be quite difficult for those experiencing it. The culture shock alone can be hard to process for those that have been in a foreign country and alien society for months or years. Usually, the longer someone has been in a war zone, the more difficult it will be to adjust to being home. It can be confusing to come home to people and things that have changed while you were gone. Even family members and friends of people in the military may need time to adjust to their loved one being back home.

What can you do to make the transition easier? If you are the one who has been gone, give yourself time to adjust. Don't have expectations of yourself that are too high. It will take time to get back in the swing of things, and that's okay. Let your family and friends know that you need time. Also, make them aware of your preferences of talking about being "over there." If you don't want them asking you questions, tell them you'd rather not talk about it. If you need someone to talk to, let them know you need their support.

If you are a family member or a friend of someone who's been in a war zone, let them know they have your support. Don't ask too many questions, in case they don't wish to talk about it, but let them know you are there if they need you. Be patient with them, and don't expect them to be the same person as when they left. Their experience may have changed them or made them more fragile. Try to understand if they are having problems with people, and try to lower the conflict level. If they do seem to be having a lot of trouble coping with the stress of being home or you see signs of extreme stress in them, you may want to assist them in seeking professional help.

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About the Author
John Call

John A. Call, Ph.D., J.D., A.B.P.P., is a forensic psychologist, an attorney, and president of Crisis Management Consultants, Inc.

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