If there is anything that a military spouse dreads, aside from deployment, it is usually a PCS (Permanent Change of Station) move. If you have not experienced a PCS move first hand, you may have formed an early impression based on the views of veteran spouses who may have had several PCS’s tucked under their belts. You may wonder what you will do when the PCS order arrives.

It may be useful to listen to the “experts” who have experienced a PCS move before, though you may wonder how objective their perspectives are. While it is true that it can hurt to say goodbye to people, places and things familiar, remember that there is help available so you can focus on the positive aspects of the move.

Learn from Other Military Spouses

It is always good to understand what a PCS move entails. It may be helpful to listen and learn from those who have experience, though you may not want to limit yourself to obtaining the perspective of just one individual. You may wish to speak to several spouses and their children. If, at any point, you feel overwhelmed, it may be ideal to seek help from a counselor who can understand your own unique situation and the possible effects that a PCS move may have on you and your family. This may allow you to process the various facets of a PCS, including the fresh opportunities that may come your way in the new location.

Make Optimisms Work for You

Of course the PCS can elicit sadness, though it may not be beneficial to focus solely on the negative aspects of a move. Whether you are for or against the order, you may need to follow the PCS order in the best interest of your spouse’s career. Rather than spend your every waking moment surrounded by all the negative aspects or thinking of the friends and family you are leaving behind, you can choose to begin to focus on the positive facets of the move. You can choose to do advance research about the new location and its potentials. It can be important to shift your thinking surrounding these major life changes as chronic negative thinking can lead to symptoms of both depression and anxiety.

The Support of One Who Understands

Your first PCS may be your most memorable one, but it doesn’t have to be a purely negative experience. A counselor may be able to help you to view your move in a more positive light. Of all the challenges you may encounter, the emotional aspects could be hardest to bare. Major life changes, such as moving, can be overwhelming and at times difficult to manage. Many military spouses identify symptoms of depression and/or anxiety associated with such adjustments. Don’t allow your transition to become more difficult; call Carolina Counseling Services – Southern Pines, NC. Whether you are preparing for a PCS or are new to an area and making adjustments, licensed, independently contracted therapists are available that can understand your situation. Don’t wait, call to schedule today and begin saying your goodbyes without bitterness or your hellos with enthusiasm.

Related Articles:

• What Can your Child be Thinking?
• Meeting the Challenges of First PCS
• Enjoying Fresh Opportunities after a PCS