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Life Challenges--Checklist Topics 11-15

 

 
SPECIFIC SITUATIONS BEHAVIOR/SIGNS TAILORED SUPPORT
11. Relationship/marital problems
Sadness/depression
Sleep problems
Appears distracted
Suicidal thought
Social isolation
Denial
Diminished trust in others
Diminished self worth
Maladaptive coping including alcohol abuse
Expressed feelings of guilt
Difficulty with other relationships
Work performance problems
Expressed concern over legal or financial problems
Ask if there is anything you can do to help
Encourage keeping ties with friends and family
Encourage peers to provide social contact
Discourage member from using alcohol to cope with the problem
In some circumstances, be alert to the possibility of increased risk for domestic violence; recognize the volatility of the situation and have a support plan
Have family and marital health as an occasional emphasis item for commander’s call or unit meetings
Encourage preventive measures such as couple’s therapy or talking with a chaplain
12. Death of someone close
Emotional numbness
Anger
Feelings of guilt
Sadness/depression
Expressed concern over finances
Desire to be left alone/social isolation
Expressed concern over lack of social support
Shock
Express sympathy, listen and ask how you can help
Encourage the person to reach out and communicate with family members and other sources of support
Allow adequate time for emergency leave
Encourage member to avoid alcohol use
Emphasize safety measures if member is traveling by car (e.g., avoid fatigue)
Refer to EAP/mental health or chaplain if significant distress is apparent
Participate in the funeral service when appropriate
13. Destruction of property by disaster
Expressed concerns over financial stressors
Guilt
Anger/expressed self-blame
Depression
Expressed concern over legal issues
Rally unit members to assist survivor
Ensure immediate needs of survivor are met (e.g., temporary housing, clothing)
Allow member liberal time off from duty, circumstances permitting
Refer to mental health/EAP if significant distress is apparent
Refer to American Red Cross
14. Financial pressures
Depression
Decline in duty performance
Difficulty with relationships
Expressed concern over financial obligations
Provide information to assist the  member in evaluating their financial situation
Recognize signs of financial stress
Publicize the existence of financial resources (e.g., commander’s call, bulletin boards)
Provide counseling on local "debt traps"/misuse of credit cards

 

15. Retirement
Expressed concerns about civilian culture
Expressed concerns about loss of prestige
Expressed concerns about the overall transition
Expressed concern over financial obligations
Encourage participation in transitional programs
Encourage use of educational benefits, if appropriate
Provide letters of recommendation as appropriate