Handling Limited Communication During Deployments: A Parent’s Survival Guide
Experiencing communication issues with your service member is a typical occurrence during deployment. During this period, keeping in touch can be challenging due to your service member's demanding schedule, time-zone differences, operational security restrictions, and limited access to communication technology. Ensuring you are equipped to handle the limited communication that comes with this time is essential for every military parent. Below is a guide to help maximize communication during deployment.
Maximizing Communication During Deployment
While maintaining contact with your service member during deployment can indeed be difficult, with the right strategy, you can make it work. Although phone calls and video calls may be out of the question, there are safer, more effective alternatives you can use to remain in contact with your service member and provide the support they need. The recommendations presented below can guide you through the process.
Understand the Problems
We asked an older couple what they thought the first step was to maximize communication with a service member on deployment, and their response was rather shocking; “Understand that there are challenges that come with deployment. There’s no way around it. Know this and know peace.”
They were right, of course. Your service member will be out of contact now and again. This can’t be helped; they have limited internet and phone access and not enough time to spend finding alternative means to keep in touch. And even when they do make the time and find the means to get in touch, Operational Security (OPSEC) procedures limit what information can be shared for national security reasons. Having all of these in mind will help you manage expectations and reduce frustration when communication is sporadic.
Develop a Communication Plan Beforehand
Work with your service member before deployment to determine the best ways to communicate with each other. Since the usual means of communication would usually not be as reliable during deployment, you should discuss what alternative methods might be more effective. You will also want to schedule regular communication, preferably having a dedicated time for calls and other means of communication. Your service member’s schedules will certainly change from time to time, so your communication plan must be flexible to be efficient.
Stay Informed
Troop units typically have official websites or Family Readiness Groups that provide information. Keeping up with websites and groups like these can help keep you informed about the condition of service members deployed to the same location as your son/daughter. You would want to limit how much time you spend on the news though, as that would often lead to a fair amount of anxiety.
Identify Support Networks
Talking with other parents in the military can be a source of emotional comfort as well as informational support. These networks will not only provide a support group during times when things get challenging but will also help provide you with better-quality information about the goings on in the industry.
Conclusion
Handling limited communication during deployment can be tough, but with preparation and the right mindset, you can navigate this challenging period with greater ease. By understanding the unique challenges of military communication, creating a flexible communication plan, staying informed through official channels, and leaning on support networks, you can maintain a strong connection with your service members while also ensuring your well-being.
Useful Resources
Operation Homefront – Offers financial and emotional support for military families during deployment.
Family Readiness Groups (FRGs) – Support groups that provide updates, resources, and a sense of community for military families.
Military OneSource – Provides free resources, counseling, and support for military families.
