How Technology Can Ease the Stress of Deployment for Military Personnel and Families

There’s something very unique about the emotional and logistical challenges that service members in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, etc., go through when given deployment orders. In fact, many people in the military and their loved ones experience intense bouts of deployment stress.

Not only can the stress of deployment affect the well-being of the military member, but it can also have a major impact on their family members. This can include issues that arise when active-duty personnel return home, such as:

• PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder): The traumatic experiences of combat can lead to ongoing psychological struggles, manifesting in nightmares, flashbacks, and difficulty adjusting to daily life.
• TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury): Often caused by blasts or physical trauma, TBI can result in cognitive difficulties, memory issues, and emotional changes that require extensive support and rehabilitation.
• Other stress reactions: Deployment-related stress can lead to anxiety, depression, or mood disorders that complicate reintegration into family and civilian life.

The good news is there are plenty of tools available to service members and their families to help bridge the gap between them, maintain open lines of communication, and provide support services that help ease the burden on the homefront.

Technology Options for Military Members and Families

Maintaining open lines of communication is crucial for managing stress while you or a loved one is deployed. There are many different technologies and apps specifically designed to help military families stay connected with their loved ones, support each other's mental health, and manage the effects of deployment stress. Here are three of the most critical resources:

Internet Service

Reliable Internet service is essential for service members to keep in touch with their children, military spouses, civilian friends, employers, and others. Not only does a high-speed connection allow the use of popular messaging apps and social media platforms, but it also enables quick access to TRICARE, a healthcare program for uniformed service members, retirees, and their families that can help you manage your mental health while on the go.

If you’ve found it challenging to secure affordable Internet access while enlisted in the armed services, the Department of Defense (DoD) is currently piloting an “Access to WiFi” program that will provide free high-speed Internet to all service members living in “unaccompanied housing.”

Mobile Phone Services

For military members, there's nothing more reassuring than hearing the voice of a loved one or receiving a simple text letting them know they're not forgotten. That's why many military members choose international plans to ensure they stay connected with their loved ones, no matter where they are across the globe. Some mobile providers offer special military plans for service members, making it easier and more affordable to maintain communication.

Video Chat and Messaging Apps

Whether through Skype, Zoom, FaceTime, or other platforms, video chat offers a refreshing way for military members to connect face-to-face with those back home. Live videos help service members reduce the feelings of isolation and temporary loneliness that come with active deployment. And when video isn’t an option, messaging apps offer an opportunity for service members to chat with their support systems during challenging times, with or without a traditional mobile plan.

Technology That Keeps Service Members Entertained

Sometimes, the best way for service members to take the edge off of deployment stress is to indulge in a few shameless hours of gaming, streaming, or binge-watching. Here are some popular entertainment options for military members:

TV and Streaming Services

Watching TV shows, movies, and streaming services can be a great way for military members to combat the stress and isolation of deployment. Many providers offer military discounts, making it easier for service members to enjoy their favorite programs and access new, high-quality entertainment.

Online Gaming and Virtual Reality

Online gaming and virtual reality provide an unmatched escape from the daily stressors of deployment. These platforms allow service members to connect with friends and support networks in a fun, immersive environment, offering a much-needed mental break. In addition to entertainment, these experiences help reduce isolation, strengthen social connections, and bring a sense of normalcy during challenging times.

Access to Books and Music

A great book or an inspiring playlist can offer a powerful therapeutic outlet for military members, helping them cope with isolation, process traumatic experiences, and manage the stress of deployment or pre-combat preparation. These simple yet impactful tools provide comfort, escape, and emotional healing when it’s needed most.

Technology That Supports the Well-Being of Our Military

While many tools are available to help with deployment stress, not all technology supports the well-being of our military members. In fact, spending too many hours on certain social media apps can do exactly the opposite. The good news is there are many apps and services that can help with the management of deployment stress for service members and their loved ones, including the following:

Mental Health Apps and Resources

Stress management apps like Headspace, Calm, Breathwrk, and the Mindfulness App can be incredibly beneficial for military members and their families. However, there are plenty more, including mental health support resources like:

• Military OneSource: A free service offering confidential counseling, wellness coaching, and financial support for active-duty, National Guard, and Reserve members and their families.
• National Center for PTSD: A resource dedicated to supporting those affected by trauma, offering educational materials, treatment options, and self-help tools to manage PTSD symptoms.
• Veterans Crisis Line: A confidential, 24/7 crisis support line that connects veterans, service members, and their families with immediate help from qualified mental health professionals.

Fitness and Wellness Apps

Staying active during deployment is a great way to combat stress and maintain both your physical and mental health. Fitness apps like 8fit, Aaptiv, and Apple Fitness+ allow you to create workout routines that fit into your deployment schedule, whether you're stationed on base or in a remote location. These apps help you track your fitness goals, follow guided workouts, participate in exercise challenges, and even practice mindfulness.

Financial Management Tools

Deployment often comes with unique financial challenges, from managing expenses at home to navigating changes in pay or allowances. Apps like Mint, YNAB, and NerdWallet can help you and your family create a budget, track spending, and plan for the future. These tools make it easy for military families to stay organized and in control of their finances during deployment, easing the burden of financial stress and helping them focus on what matters most.

Substance Abuse Support Apps

Deployment can amplify the challenges of substance abuse, making it harder to cope without your usual support systems. Fortunately, apps like 7 Cups, What’s Up?, Sober Sidekick, and PTSD Coach offer a lifeline during these difficult times. These apps provide access to peer support groups, recovery communities, and mental health professionals, allowing you to find help and resources even when you're far from home. While these tools can be a great addition to your recovery journey during deployment, they should be used alongside professional care, especially for military members who are greatly struggling.

Educational Technology for Military Members and Families

Deployment can be a great time to focus on learning and personal growth, both for you and your family. With the help of technology, there are plenty of ways to build new skills, advance your career, and keep kids engaged in learning. From online courses to educational apps, these tools can make deployment more productive and less stressful:

Online Courses and Learning Platforms

Online platforms like Coursera and edX offer a huge variety of courses that service members and military spouses can take from anywhere in the world. Whether you’re looking to advance your career or learn something new, these courses are a great and productive distraction during deployment. You can even take the same course as your loved one, giving you a shared experience despite the distance.

Skill-Building Apps for Adults

Along with formal courses, there are plenty of apps that help you build useful skills during deployment. Apps like Duolingo let you learn a new language, while Khan Academy offers free lessons in subjects like math and science. These tools make it easy to use your deployment time for self-improvement and personal growth, all from the convenience of your phone.

Children’s Educational Apps

For families at home, children’s educational apps provide fun, engaging ways to keep kids learning while a parent is deployed. These apps can help make life easier for caregivers and offer a productive outlet for kids of all ages. Many Family Support Centers also provide special access to educational resources designed for military families.

Find the Right TV, Internet, and Mobile Service With SmartMove

SmartMove understands the unique needs of military members and their families. We’re here to ensure you and your family stay connected, entertained, and supported before and after deployment. Here’s what we offer:

• Customized Solutions: We’ll help you find a customized Internet, TV, or mobile plan that accommodates the demands of military life.
• Resources For Military Families: We helpl service members and their families find useful resources, including discounts, moving tips, and more.
• Flexible Solutions: We’ll teach you how to take advantage of the military clause and work with providers who offer the best plans for active duty members.

Whether you’re searching for a reliable home Internet connection or looking to stay connected while on the go, we’re here to help you find the best cable, Internet, and phone services available in your area.

Enter your address below to connect with the top providers for military members today.