As the United Kingdom paused on Monday, September 11th, to reflect on the tragic events that shaped our global landscape, we were reminded not only of the horrors of that day but also of the ongoing sacrifices made by those who serve in the military. This day of remembrance offers an opportunity to honour the brave individuals who have served and continue to serve, but it also brings into focus the emotional toll faced by their families, particularly those who endure long, painful separations while their loved ones are away.
The impact of these separations goes far beyond the service member themselves. For those left behind at home, the absence creates a daily struggle of uncertainty, fear, and longing. Whether it’s a partner, child, parent, or sibling, the emotional weight of not knowing when or if their loved one will return is something that only those who’ve experienced it can truly understand.
The Hidden Struggles of Military Families
When service members are called away for a deployment, training exercise, or peacekeeping mission, they can be gone for extended periods, sometimes months or even years. These separations become a difficult but routine part of life for military families, yet the emotional and practical impact on the families left behind is often overlooked.
Spouses, children, and other family members don’t just miss shared moments or family events; they also carry a constant undercurrent of worry and anxiety about their loved one’s safety. The emotional strain of managing everyday life without them can be overwhelming. For children, especially, the absence can feel like a loss that is hard to comprehend. For spouses, it means taking on the full burden of running a household with little emotional support at home.
The weight of this responsibility intensifies as the length of the deployment stretches on. For military families, milestones like birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays feel incomplete without their loved one by their side. Life, in many ways, is put on pause, with every family member holding on to the hope of a safe return, but never knowing when that will happen. The emotional resilience required to cope with such uncertainty is profound, yet it can take a toll on mental health over time.
How Workplaces Can Acknowledge the Impact
As we reflect on the sacrifices of service members and their families, we must remember that the families left behind often face challenges that are just as demanding. While many workplaces are beginning to recognise the unique needs of military personnel, fewer acknowledge the strain felt by those at home. It’s crucial for employers to take a holistic view of the military family experience, understanding that the emotional burden of separation can affect the well-being and productivity of employees who have loved ones serving.
Workplaces can play a key role in supporting military families, and there are several ways businesses can offer meaningful assistance:
- Flexible Working Hours: When a loved one is deployed, life doesn’t stop for the family. Flexible hours can help employees manage their time better, allowing them to attend to family needs, take care of children, or simply have a bit of breathing room in an otherwise overwhelming situation. Remote working, where possible, is another option that can ease some of the pressure.
- Supportive Leave Policies: Deployments often come with short notice, and service members may leave for extended periods with little time for the family to prepare. Paid or unpaid leave can help employees manage both the emotional and practical aspects of a loved one’s deployment, whether it’s to spend time together before they leave or to attend to their own well-being during the absence.
- Mental Health Resources: The emotional strain of living with the uncertainty of a loved one’s deployment can be immense. Employers should ensure employees have access to mental health resources such as counselling services, employee assistance programs (EAPs), or internal support networks. These resources can help employees cope with stress, anxiety, and the isolation that often accompanies a deployment.
- Employee Peer Support: Many employees from military families benefit from connecting with others who understand their experiences. Workplaces can foster a sense of community by creating support groups or networks for military families. These groups provide a safe space for employees to share experiences, offer advice, and give emotional support, helping reduce feelings of isolation.
- Recognition and Acknowledgment: Sometimes, the most powerful support comes in the form of simple recognition. Acknowledging the emotional load an employee is carrying, whether through a note, a conversation with a manager, or a special event on Remembrance Day or September 11th can go a long way in showing that the workplace understands and values their sacrifices.
The Larger Context of Remembrance
This September 11th, as we honoured the sacrifices made by those who serve in the military and remembered those lost in tragic events, it’s vital that we also recognise the sacrifices made by the families who remain at home. These families are not just waiting for their loved ones to return, they are managing their lives, maintaining households, and navigating the emotional toll of absence. Their resilience and strength often go unrecognised, but it is crucial to acknowledge that their journey is just as significant as the one undertaken by the service members themselves.
When we consider the sacrifices of military personnel, we must also consider the sacrifices of their families. It’s time that workplaces start recognising and supporting the partners, parents, and children who endure the emotional hardships of long separations, often without the immediate hope of return. By offering flexibility, mental health support, and a compassionate ear, employers can help ease the burden on these families, making it easier for them to cope with the emotional impact of military service.
There are various support services available for service families, and it’s important to know where they can turn for help and guidance when they need it most. Having access to the right resources can make a significant difference during challenging times
https://www.helpforheroes.org.uk/
https://www.nff.org.uk/ (Navy)
https://www.combatstress.org.uk/