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Aug 07, 2023

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JULY 15, 2023 – Moving season is in full swing for many military families! The process of a Permanent Change of Station, or PCS, can be both exciting and stressful. Saying goodbye to what was

JULY 15, 2023 – Moving season is in full swing for many military families! The process of a Permanent Change of Station, or PCS, can be both exciting and stressful.

Saying goodbye to what was familiar, and adjusting to new housing, employment, routines, social activities and schools can at times feel overwhelming.

Logistically, some changes can be more time-consuming than others, such as the time spent in temporary housing, delivery of household items, and childcare enrollment.

Using healthy coping skills during times of transition is key to reducing stress and managing your mental health prior, during and after a military move.

Coping With StressMoving is a long process which often takes individuals and families several months to complete. On average, military families move every three years – about four times more often than civilian families. A PCS can be physically, financially and emotionally demanding, even for military families who have moved several times. Although there are benefits to a new moving experience, the challenges can take an emotional toll.

Here are some tips to help cope with emotional stress following a PCS season:

Additional Support Recommendations:

The Defense Health Agency supports our Nation by improving health and building readiness—making extraordinary experiences ordinary and exceptional outcomes routine.

By Army Lt. Col. Melissa BoydLicensed Clinical PsychologistDefense Centers for Public Health–Aberdeen

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