Military youth coping with separation: when family members deploy

The effects of military deployment can be challenging and stressful on children. Reactions can range from depression, anger, sadness, fear of abandonment and anxiety.

If acted out, these emotional problems can result in social and family withdrawal, difficulty in school, severe depression, and physical and mental abuse.

Maj. Keith M. Lemmon, MD, FAAP, conducted a session entitled, “The Effects of Military Deployment on Child and Adolescent Mental Health: A Critical Support Role for the Pediatrician,” in which he discussed an American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) mental health program designed to increase awareness regarding the long-term effects of military deployment and provide resources to help and support military children and their families.

In addition, two new educational DVDs have been produced, one for children ages 6- 11, and another featuring teens talking about how they cope with their parents' deployment. Currently, hundreds of DVDs have been distributed to children, teen centers, and youth health care providers.

Editor's Note: The two educational DVDs, “Military Youth Coping with Separation: When Family Members Deploy,” and “Mr. Po and Friends Discuss Family Reunion After Deployment,” can be found online at: http://www.aap.org/sections/unifserv/deployment/index.html