Reintegration begins now for Airmen returning home

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Terri Barriere
  • 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
BALAD AIR BASE, Iraq --  Long before bags are packed, replacements are in place and final out-processing is complete, redeployment preparations begin for Airmen. 

Redeployment preparations here help with reintegration at home station, said Chaplain (Capt.) Cliff Jones.

"Our focus is continuity of care," he said. "We want to make sure people are handed off and not dropped off so that no one gets lost in the system."

Intervention in theater, and immediately following a return, reduce the symptoms that lead to suicide, post traumatic stress disorder, spousal abuse and child abuse, said Maj. Deborah Zimmerman, the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing sexual assault response coordinator.

"When people are deployed, they're used to being in control, but they can't go home and be that way," said the major. "Even though changes have taken place at home, it's hard for some people to turn off that hyper-vigilant personality. Knowing resources are available before they go home helps people get the process started."

Though open communication is regarded as key in the reintegration process, reintegration team members said, redeploying Airmen should also make plans, set goals and begin talking about things that may have changed while they were away.

"We want to try and temper people's expectations," said Chaplain (Maj.) David Allen, a 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing chaplain. "It might not be as rosy as you think. Everyone thinks they're going to return home to hugs, kisses and weeks of bliss, but the truth is it might not necessarily be like that."

Chaplain Jones said once deployers return home, they'll have to take time out to find their place and what works best for their family.

"You don't think you've changed, but you have -- even if it's just a little, and so has your family," said Chaplain Jones. "Whether it's someone passing, a child birth or family resources changing, there are good stressors and bad that will be there when you return."

Significant anxiety, depression, nightmares, intrusive thoughts, avoidance, withdrawal, exaggerated startled responses, alcohol abuse and chronic insomnia are all signs of stress to be aware of when redeploying.

Chaplain Allen recommends Airmen having a tough time adjusting should find someone whose been deployed and talk to them. "Having someone to talk to and share with whose been through the same circumstances is key," he said.

Chaplain Allen also suggests contacting one of the support agencies on base for help. The mental health office, chapel, Airmen and Family Readiness Center or personal worship centers are all available to aid in the reintegration process.

"The help is out there for people who might need it, they just need to reach out," Chaplain Jones said. 

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