Military FamiliesSBHCs Address the Needs of "Suddenly Military" FamiliesThis webpage provides tools, resources, and information to assist school-based health center (SBHC) personnel better address the needs of children of “suddenly military” families. The term “suddenly military” is used to describe reservists from all branches of the military and National Guardsmen who are suddenly deployed from a civilian job and life into full-time military service. As many National Guardsmen and reservists from all military branches have been called up for multiple tours of duty, their family members (children, parent, and/or extended family members back home) are increasingly in need of services and resources to support them during these times. Unlike children whose parents and/or family members live and serve on military bases, children of National Guardsmen and reservists do not regularly have access to the same resources to deal with a parent or other family member being deployed, dealing with grief and trauma, and receiving support during such times. Unique Issues Pertaining to Children of National Guardsmen and ReservistsSince 2001 there has been a greater deployment of military forces due to the on-going wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. With increased deployment over so many years there has been an increased impact on military families, in particular on the children in these families. Dealing with issues of deployment, grief, trauma, and bereavement can be difficult for children and families alike. How these issues, and the various effects of such issues, may manifest differs in different children and families. It is important to have an understanding of these issues, the sensitivity required to appropriately address them, and what ways school health personnel can support students through such difficult times. Read more here
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