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2. Re-Deployment
Homecoming Homecoming after major deployment. We will face homecoming soon. This will mean that you married Marines
will be readjusting with your families, and that you single Marines will need productive things to do. It will
mean reuniting with children, and understanding in basic terms where they are developmentally. And, it will
mean that some stress problems that may have developed during deployment may not go away immediately
and will need to be recognized and treated. We want to give you Marines the basic
tools to recognize what these signs and symptoms of stress problems are on the Combat Operational
Stress Continuum, and understand what to do to provide the necessary assistance that you, your Marine
buddies, and your family members deserve.
Homecoming after major deployment. We will face homecoming soon. This will mean that you married Marines
will be readjusting with your families, and that you single Marines will need productive things to do. It will
mean reuniting with children, and understanding in basic terms where they are developmentally. And, it will
mean that some stress problems that may have developed during deployment may not go away immediately
and will need to be recognized and treated. We want to give you Marines the basic
tools to recognize what these signs and symptoms of stress problems are on the Combat Operational
Stress Continuum, and understand what to do to provide the necessary assistance that you, your Marine
buddies, and your family members deserve.
3. Overview and Purpose Part I: Look at end of deployment transition to home period
Look at expected sources of home and garrison stress
Learn age specific responses of children to your homecoming transition
Part II: Review COSC Continuum Model
Learn Green, Yellow, Orange, and Red zones in self and peers
Learn stress coping skills
Participate in safe discussions of deployment experiences to reach common understanding
Know where to get help for orange or red zone problems
Goals of the brief. This brief is in two parts. Part I deals with some of the common transition challenges you may face
as you come home for yourself, your family, and your children. Part II examines your individual levels of accumulated
combat and operational stress, and will help you recognize where you and your Marine buddies fall on a continuum of
stress problems that begin with Green and Ready and continue to Red and Ill.
So now, we will start with Part I of Warrior Transition.Goals of the brief. This brief is in two parts. Part I deals with some of the common transition challenges you may face
as you come home for yourself, your family, and your children. Part II examines your individual levels of accumulated
combat and operational stress, and will help you recognize where you and your Marine buddies fall on a continuum of
stress problems that begin with Green and Ready and continue to Red and Ill.
So now, we will start with Part I of Warrior Transition.
4.
Remember all the pre-deployment work-ups?
Work: Meetings, drills, checklists, immunizations
Home: Setting up finances, bills, car, child care
Emotions: Irritable, sad, excited, tense, worried
During post-deployment, you will have similar work and home responsibilities as well as emotional changes
POST-DEPLOYMENT TAKES TIME AND EFFORT
Part I: TRANSITION! Part I of the Warrior Transition brief covers the period you are in now: TRANSITION. It takes time and effort to properly
execute this stage in the deployment cycle, and the information in this brief is designed to help you
do that.Part I of the Warrior Transition brief covers the period you are in now: TRANSITION. It takes time and effort to properly
execute this stage in the deployment cycle, and the information in this brief is designed to help you
do that.
5. Transition to Home Considerations
Here are some things we should all consider when thinking about going home. These are all normal things we all can experience when going home.
Some people are excited to see their family and get out of theater. Others have to go back to financial, family, legal or other problems which they left behind on deployment.
We will probably all be tired for awhile after arriving. This may last 1-2 weeks due to jet lag and the excitement or worries we experience during redeployment. Family and friends may be looking forward to doing all sorts of work or fun stuff and you’ll be exhausted. That’s OK. Have fun, but take the time you need to rest. Talk to your friends and family and they should understand.
We may have high hopes that pre-existing problems will have resolved, or that our reunions will be perfect. This may not be the case which gets us down on ourselves or others. It’s important to set realistic expectations for ourselves and others.
Show appreciation to your spouse or friends for helping out while you were away. They deserve it, and your expression of gratitude will go a long way in helping them feel good about themselves and your homecoming. Even though you may not be happy with everything they did, or you may be surprised by things at home, show them you care about them.
Children may react differently based upon their age, expectations, and what happened while you were away. Give it time for them to warm back up to you.
Be careful! You’re not in theatre anymore.
- We haven’t driven our POVs nor have we driven in interstate traffic for awhile. Some of us haven’t driven at all. Go slow to allow those skills to come back.
- The malls, car lots, and stores, will have never looked better. You may have lots of extra money waiting for you back home. It’s important not to go on major buying sprees when you are excited. Try not to make major purchases for the first month until you have settled back down.
- Our tolerance has gone way down so having a drink will be different now. Be very careful, and if you drink, do so in moderation. Don’t drink and drive or do anything else which ruins homecoming for you and everyone else.
Here are some things we should all consider when thinking about going home. These are all normal things we all can experience when going home.
Some people are excited to see their family and get out of theater. Others have to go back to financial, family, legal or other problems which they left behind on deployment.
We will probably all be tired for awhile after arriving. This may last 1-2 weeks due to jet lag and the excitement or worries we experience during redeployment. Family and friends may be looking forward to doing all sorts of work or fun stuff and you’ll be exhausted. That’s OK. Have fun, but take the time you need to rest. Talk to your friends and family and they should understand.
We may have high hopes that pre-existing problems will have resolved, or that our reunions will be perfect. This may not be the case which gets us down on ourselves or others. It’s important to set realistic expectations for ourselves and others.
Show appreciation to your spouse or friends for helping out while you were away. They deserve it, and your expression of gratitude will go a long way in helping them feel good about themselves and your homecoming. Even though you may not be happy with everything they did, or you may be surprised by things at home, show them you care about them.
Children may react differently based upon their age, expectations, and what happened while you were away. Give it time for them to warm back up to you.
Be careful! You’re not in theatre anymore.
- We haven’t driven our POVs nor have we driven in interstate traffic for awhile. Some of us haven’t driven at all. Go slow to allow those skills to come back.
- The malls, car lots, and stores, will have never looked better. You may have lots of extra money waiting for you back home. It’s important not to go on major buying sprees when you are excited. Try not to make major purchases for the first month until you have settled back down.
- Our tolerance has gone way down so having a drink will be different now. Be very careful, and if you drink, do so in moderation. Don’t drink and drive or do anything else which ruins homecoming for you and everyone else.
6. Transition to Home: Single Marines and Sailors Homecoming Reception
Personal/emotional changes
Planning for the future, meeting people
Single Marine Program
Single Marines/Sailors have their own unique things to contend with at home which we should all be aware of.
Those of us with families will likely have someone to meet us when we arrive. That may not be the case for some. It can be disheartening to arrive back triumphantly only to be left by yourself when everyone around you seems to have friends and family with them. If you are single and by yourself, you may want to plan to celebrate with some fellow Marines/Sailors who will be by themselves. Call home. If you know someone who is by themselves, invite them over. Ancient military tradition is to round up stragglers and bring them to your home for any holidays or special occasions, so that no Marine or Sailor spends these times alone. This certainly qualifies as one of those occasions! We are all a family now. We looked after each other in the streets of Iraq, and we should do so back home as well.
We’ve all changed and matured to some extent out here in Iraq. Girlfriends and family will also have changed some. Be prepared for these changes. If things don’t go so smoothly, give it some time. Its easy to get frustrated as we have to adapt to these changes in ourselves and others. Mood swings, confusion, worry, and sleep problems are normal. Go slow, relax, and know that things will get easier. Life will get back to a normal routine soon.
Now is a good time to think about what you want to do with your time back. Take advantage of programs and opportunities that look interesting. You may have new friends now after deployment, but other friends may have deployed for the second half or have PCS’d. If so, it is good to meet others and stay connected. The Single Marine Program can help in this regard to offer activities and a chance to meet new people.
Take advantage of the Single Marine Program at your base or installation. They offer lots of activities, and you might meet
new people!
Single Marines/Sailors have their own unique things to contend with at home which we should all be aware of.
Those of us with families will likely have someone to meet us when we arrive. That may not be the case for some. It can be disheartening to arrive back triumphantly only to be left by yourself when everyone around you seems to have friends and family with them. If you are single and by yourself, you may want to plan to celebrate with some fellow Marines/Sailors who will be by themselves. Call home. If you know someone who is by themselves, invite them over. Ancient military tradition is to round up stragglers and bring them to your home for any holidays or special occasions, so that no Marine or Sailor spends these times alone. This certainly qualifies as one of those occasions! We are all a family now. We looked after each other in the streets of Iraq, and we should do so back home as well.
We’ve all changed and matured to some extent out here in Iraq. Girlfriends and family will also have changed some. Be prepared for these changes. If things don’t go so smoothly, give it some time. Its easy to get frustrated as we have to adapt to these changes in ourselves and others. Mood swings, confusion, worry, and sleep problems are normal. Go slow, relax, and know that things will get easier. Life will get back to a normal routine soon.
Now is a good time to think about what you want to do with your time back. Take advantage of programs and opportunities that look interesting. You may have new friends now after deployment, but other friends may have deployed for the second half or have PCS’d. If so, it is good to meet others and stay connected. The Single Marine Program can help in this regard to offer activities and a chance to meet new people.
Take advantage of the Single Marine Program at your base or installation. They offer lots of activities, and you might meet
new people!
7. Sources of Operational Stress Here are some of the sources of stress that you have gone through on the deployment. The five categories in the left column (physical,
cognitive, emotional, social, and spiritual) represent five broad areas in every Marine’s life.
There are certain “challenges” and “conditions” that can present a great deal of stress on individual Marines and units. These
are noted in the columns on the right, and are only a few of the major sources of stress that may be experienced in operational
settings.
These sources of stress have changed you, don’t you think?!
Here are some of the sources of stress that you have gone through on the deployment. The five categories in the left column (physical,
cognitive, emotional, social, and spiritual) represent five broad areas in every Marine’s life.
There are certain “challenges” and “conditions” that can present a great deal of stress on individual Marines and units. These
are noted in the columns on the right, and are only a few of the major sources of stress that may be experienced in operational
settings.
These sources of stress have changed you, don’t you think?!
8. You have changed… (and so have they)
New skills and interests
New appearances
New routines
Shift in priorities / What’s important in life
Shift in perception of what the future will be like Transition to Home: Everyone By definition, you are different now! Under normal life circumstances, someone changes in 7-14mos – but under deployment circumstances, life is accelerated.
Your family and friends have been living life without you for quite some time now – your leaving left a hole that they could not help but try to fill, at least partially. It may take some time and doing for you to “fit” back in that hole, because it’s smaller than when you left.By definition, you are different now! Under normal life circumstances, someone changes in 7-14mos – but under deployment circumstances, life is accelerated.
Your family and friends have been living life without you for quite some time now – your leaving left a hole that they could not help but try to fill, at least partially. It may take some time and doing for you to “fit” back in that hole, because it’s smaller than when you left.
9. Transition to Home: Married Marines “How it used to be” may no longer apply
Unfinished Business in the relationship
“I am home, and I’m in charge”
“Who had it worse?”
Re-establishing intimacy with spouse (more than sex)
Infidelity
Married Marines have a different set of worries to contend with than single Marines.
Spouses and returning personnel will have changed in the course of deployment. The spouse may have developed new confidence with the responsibility of running the household. “Who are you? You’re not the boss of me!”
While exited about the reunion, there may also be apprehension about issues existing in the relationship before the deployment, and any new ones that have developed during your absence.
To take the approach of “I am home and I am in charge” is to invite arguments and hurt feelings. Integrating back into the family is a process, not an event that can happen at the front door.
Don’t go through the “who had it worse” contests!
Not everyone is able to maintain intimacy over the phone and email – sex can suffer when the “connection” has not been fully re-established – this takes time. Again, the fantasy about what that first night will be like could lead to some serious disappointment.
Worries about the occurrence of infidelity are more common then the occurrence of infidelity. It is wise to assume you have both been faithful. Accusations of infidelity strike at the very core of a relationship. Infidelity is a sign of deeper issues in the relationship. Underlying issues must be addressed, usually with the help of professional counseling.
Married Marines have a different set of worries to contend with than single Marines.
Spouses and returning personnel will have changed in the course of deployment. The spouse may have developed new confidence with the responsibility of running the household. “Who are you? You’re not the boss of me!”
While exited about the reunion, there may also be apprehension about issues existing in the relationship before the deployment, and any new ones that have developed during your absence.
To take the approach of “I am home and I am in charge” is to invite arguments and hurt feelings. Integrating back into the family is a process, not an event that can happen at the front door.
Don’t go through the “who had it worse” contests!
Not everyone is able to maintain intimacy over the phone and email – sex can suffer when the “connection” has not been fully re-established – this takes time. Again, the fantasy about what that first night will be like could lead to some serious disappointment.
Worries about the occurrence of infidelity are more common then the occurrence of infidelity. It is wise to assume you have both been faithful. Accusations of infidelity strike at the very core of a relationship. Infidelity is a sign of deeper issues in the relationship. Underlying issues must be addressed, usually with the help of professional counseling.
10. Children Typical adjustment takes weeks or months
Infants (birth to one year)
Toddlers (1-3 years)
Preschoolers (3-5 years)
School Age (5-12 years)
Adolescent (13-18 years) Children and parents will take several weeks or months to adjust. The transition takes time for everyone in the family.
Each age group responds differently.Children and parents will take several weeks or months to adjust. The transition takes time for everyone in the family.
Each age group responds differently.
11.
May cry when held, fuss, or pull away to caregiver
Don’t expect infants to recognize the returning parent, but instead expect them to react as if towards a stranger
Get involved in care-taking activities / play, and the baby will warm up at their own pace (probably soon) Infants: Birth to 1 Year Infants: Do not expect an infant to recognize the returning Marine parent. Instead expect them to react as if towards a stranger. The infant may cry when held, fuss, pull away, and cling to the person that was his/her primary care giver. The newly returned Marine parent should gently get involved in holding, hugging, bathing, feeding, playing with and caring for the baby. The baby will warm up at his/her own pace. Let the baby’s reactions be your guide.Infants: Do not expect an infant to recognize the returning Marine parent. Instead expect them to react as if towards a stranger. The infant may cry when held, fuss, pull away, and cling to the person that was his/her primary care giver. The newly returned Marine parent should gently get involved in holding, hugging, bathing, feeding, playing with and caring for the baby. The baby will warm up at his/her own pace. Let the baby’s reactions be your guide.
12. May not recognize returning Marine parent right away
May be shy and hide, or clingy with primary care-giver
May have temper tantrums or regress with toilet training
Don’t force hugs or play; give space and time to warm up
Sit or kneel at their level; gently get involved
Show affection with spouse or partner, and toddlers will soon be in the middle Toddlers: Ages 1-3 Toddlers: A typical response might be to hide from the newly returned parent, to cling to his/her primary caregiver, cry and perhaps regress in potty training. Give the child space and time to warm up to the returning Marine. It helps to sit at eye-level with toddlers when talking to them. Give gentle offers to play with them, but if they refuse, do not force the issue. Toddlers quickly see the affection shown between their parents, and want to be in the middle of this!Toddlers: A typical response might be to hide from the newly returned parent, to cling to his/her primary caregiver, cry and perhaps regress in potty training. Give the child space and time to warm up to the returning Marine. It helps to sit at eye-level with toddlers when talking to them. Give gentle offers to play with them, but if they refuse, do not force the issue. Toddlers quickly see the affection shown between their parents, and want to be in the middle of this!
13. Recognize returning parent but need time to warm up
Tend to believe the world revolves around them, so may feel the parent left because they no longer cared for them. May express intense anger
May misbehave or become demanding to get attention
Accept the child’s feelings; reward positive behavior
Re-establish trust; support other parent’s authority Pre-Schoolers: Ages 3-5 Preschoolers: Children around this age, tend to think that the world revolves around them. Keeping that in mind, don’t be surprised if he/she somehow thought they made their parent go away, or that the parent left because he/she no longer cared about the child. If this case happened, he/she may have felt guilty or abandoned when the Marine left. When you return, the child may seem angry or distant. This is a way for them to “protect” themselves from further disappointment. Listen to your child and spend time with them so they feel comfortable with you again.
Your preschooler may try to see how much they can get away with. Be careful not to step in too quickly in an authoritative role.
Work with your spouse on how you both want to set limits.
Preschoolers: Children around this age, tend to think that the world revolves around them. Keeping that in mind, don’t be surprised if he/she somehow thought they made their parent go away, or that the parent left because he/she no longer cared about the child. If this case happened, he/she may have felt guilty or abandoned when the Marine left. When you return, the child may seem angry or distant. This is a way for them to “protect” themselves from further disappointment. Listen to your child and spend time with them so they feel comfortable with you again.
Your preschooler may try to see how much they can get away with. Be careful not to step in too quickly in an authoritative role.
Work with your spouse on how you both want to set limits.
14. More likely to give a warm reception, especially if good pre-deployment relationship. If strained relationship, may act shy or withdrawn upon return and fear punishment for misbehavior during the deployment
May non-stop talk to bring parent up to date
May be extra sensitive to criticism from returning parent
Praise for achievements; time reviewing school-work and accomplishments; go to school with them if asked School Age: Ages 5-12 School Age: Children this age are more likely to give a warm reception if the parent-child relationship was strong before the deployment separation. The school child may be excited about the reception with their Marine parent, and may attempt to monopolize the returning parents attention. However, if the relationship was strained prior to the separation, the child may fear punishment for misbehavior that occurred during the deployment. Such a thought process may lead the child to be shy or withdrawn around the returned parent. It is best for the returning Marine parent to have a friendly interest in what the child has done during the time of deployment and praise him/her for his/her achievements.School Age: Children this age are more likely to give a warm reception if the parent-child relationship was strong before the deployment separation. The school child may be excited about the reception with their Marine parent, and may attempt to monopolize the returning parents attention. However, if the relationship was strained prior to the separation, the child may fear punishment for misbehavior that occurred during the deployment. Such a thought process may lead the child to be shy or withdrawn around the returned parent. It is best for the returning Marine parent to have a friendly interest in what the child has done during the time of deployment and praise him/her for his/her achievements.
15. Excitement upon return; may be more reserved in public
Can have mood swings and insecurities, will be watching you for your reaction to them and the changes in their lives (physical, social, intellectual)
Concerned about rules / standards that may be changing
Listen with undivided attention; be careful not to over-criticize
Encourage to share the events and changes in their rapidly changing lives Adolescents: Ages 12-18 Adolescent: May have mood swings that go up and down like a roller coaster. One moment they are reasonable, and the next may be reacting in a purely emotional way. Their reactions may also be characterized by mixed emotions. They may be excited if the relationship was good-natured prior to deployment. It’s important to remember that adolescents are reserved in public expression of emotions and may be more concerned about acting “cool” in front of their peers. Adolescents tend to be very sensitive about being unfavorably judged or criticized. It is important to make time to discuss and understand with your adolescent what is going on in his/her life as well as what you’ve experienced. As with sons and daughters of any age, it is critical to give your adolescent some of each parent’s undivided attention.
Adolescent: May have mood swings that go up and down like a roller coaster. One moment they are reasonable, and the next may be reacting in a purely emotional way. Their reactions may also be characterized by mixed emotions. They may be excited if the relationship was good-natured prior to deployment. It’s important to remember that adolescents are reserved in public expression of emotions and may be more concerned about acting “cool” in front of their peers. Adolescents tend to be very sensitive about being unfavorably judged or criticized. It is important to make time to discuss and understand with your adolescent what is going on in his/her life as well as what you’ve experienced. As with sons and daughters of any age, it is critical to give your adolescent some of each parent’s undivided attention.
16. Single Parent Custodial Parent
May have bonded to to their caregiver in your absence
Separation from caregiver can be traumatic
Non-Custodial Parent
Not affected as much by your deployment
Re-establishing your visits If you are a custodial parent, consider how children have bonded with their caregiver during your absence. Consider how that will affect your relationship with your children and caregiver. The children’s relationship with the caregiver has strengthened during your absence. Their loyalty may be to the caregiver. That increased loyalty may feel painful and threatening to the returning parent.
Focus on communicating both with the caregiver and your children. Recognize that you and your children will need to adapt to living with each other again. While you were gone, they may have had different rules and procedures compared to your household. The adjustment period may take several weeks.
To force young children to suddenly separate from the caregiver can be traumatic. Involve the caregiver in the transition. The adjustment period may take several weeks. Children need to feel included in the process or re-establishing the structure and “flavor” of your home environment.
If you are a non-custodial parent, your children’s living conditions were probably not impacted by your deployment, but they missed you. As you re-establish visitation, remember you and your children have grown and changed and you will need to take time to get reacquainted.
If you are a custodial parent, consider how children have bonded with their caregiver during your absence. Consider how that will affect your relationship with your children and caregiver. The children’s relationship with the caregiver has strengthened during your absence. Their loyalty may be to the caregiver. That increased loyalty may feel painful and threatening to the returning parent.
Focus on communicating both with the caregiver and your children. Recognize that you and your children will need to adapt to living with each other again. While you were gone, they may have had different rules and procedures compared to your household. The adjustment period may take several weeks.
To force young children to suddenly separate from the caregiver can be traumatic. Involve the caregiver in the transition. The adjustment period may take several weeks. Children need to feel included in the process or re-establishing the structure and “flavor” of your home environment.
If you are a non-custodial parent, your children’s living conditions were probably not impacted by your deployment, but they missed you. As you re-establish visitation, remember you and your children have grown and changed and you will need to take time to get reacquainted.
17. Part II: Examination of Self and Marine Friends for Stress Concerns Combat Operational Stress Control Continuum Model
Green Zone (Ready)
Yellow Zone (Reacting)
Orange Zone (Injured)
Red Zone (Ill)
Stress Coping
Leadership Responsibilities
How Have You Changed?
Where to get help After learning some of the basics that related to" transitioning” home, it is time to do some self-examination in Part II
of Warrior Transition.
We will focus here on the stress that may have accumulated over the course of this deployment, and how
it may have affected you. This will be based on the COSC Continuum Model which identifies and ranges stress problems
from Green and Ready to Red and Ill.
Next, we will examine some coping skills that may be used to alleviate and mitigate stress you may be experiencing.
We will then look at some leadership responsibilities to assist Marines with stress problems, and then finish the
brief with some self-reflection and examination based on the simple COSC Continuum Model.
After learning some of the basics that related to" transitioning” home, it is time to do some self-examination in Part II
of Warrior Transition.
We will focus here on the stress that may have accumulated over the course of this deployment, and how
it may have affected you. This will be based on the COSC Continuum Model which identifies and ranges stress problems
from Green and Ready to Red and Ill.
Next, we will examine some coping skills that may be used to alleviate and mitigate stress you may be experiencing.
We will then look at some leadership responsibilities to assist Marines with stress problems, and then finish the
brief with some self-reflection and examination based on the simple COSC Continuum Model.
18. Combat and Operational Stress Continuum Model This slide shows the definition of being in the Green, Yellow, Orange, or Red zone and shows some of the features that Marines will
exhibit if they are in that zone. A very complete description of these zones follows in the speaker notes on the next slide showing the Continuum Model for Marines.This slide shows the definition of being in the Green, Yellow, Orange, or Red zone and shows some of the features that Marines will
exhibit if they are in that zone. A very complete description of these zones follows in the speaker notes on the next slide showing the Continuum Model for Marines.
19. Combat Operational Stress Continuum for Marines And this slide shows, in very general and easy to remember terms, the basic characteristics that Marines
will feel and experience in each zone. Let’s go through them all now.
Ready: the Green Zone
The Green Ready zone can be defined as encompassing adaptive coping, effective functioning in all spheres, and personal well-being. The ability to remain in the Green zone under stress, and to return quickly to it once impaired or injured by stress, are two crucial aspects of resiliency. Following are some of the attributes
and behaviors characteristic of the Green Ready zone:
Remaining calm and steady
Being confident in self and others
Getting the job done
Remaining in control physically, mentally, and emotionally
Behaving ethically and morally
Retaining a sense of humor
Sleeping enough
Eating the right amount
Working out and staying fit
Playing well and often
Remaining active socially and spiritually
Reacting: the Yellow Zone
The Yellow Reacting zone can be defined as encompassing mild and temporary distress or loss of function due to stress. By definition, Yellow zone reacting is always temporary and reversible. The following experiences, behaviors, and symptoms may be characteristic of the Yellow Reacting zone:
Feeling anxious
Worrying
Cutting corners on the job
Being short tempered or mean
Being irritable or grouchy
Having trouble falling asleep
Eating too much or too little
Feeling apathetic or losing energy or enthusiasm
Not enjoying usual activities
Keeping to oneself
Being overly loud or hyperactive
Being negative or pessimistic
Having diminished capacity for mental focus
Injured: the Orange Zone
The Orange Injured zone can be defined as encompassing more severe and persistent forms of distress or loss of function that cannot be fully undone over time. Although stress injuries cannot be undone, as for physical injuries, their usual course is to heal over time. Since stress injuries are not clinical mental disorders, they do not require clinical mental health expertise to recognize them, although operational commanders and small unit leaders rely heavily on their chaplains and organic medical personnel to identify Orange zone stress injuries.
Stress injuries include:
Losing control of one’s body, emotions, or thinking
Being frequently unable to fall or stay asleep
Waking up from recurrent, vivid nightmares
Feeling persistent, intense guilt or shame
Feeling unusually remorseless
Experiencing attacks of panic or blind rage
Losing memory or the ability to think rationally
Being unable to enjoy usually pleasurable activities
Losing grounding in previously held moral values
Displaying a significant and persistent change in behavior or appearance
Harboring serious suicidal or homicidal thoughts
Ill: the Red Zone
The Red Ill zone can be defined as including all mental disorders arising in individuals exposed to combat or other operational stressors. Since Red zone illnesses are clinical mental disorders, they can only be diagnosed by health professionals. However, Marines can and should be aware of the characteristic symptoms of stress illnesses. Common Red zone illnesses include the following:
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Depressive disorders, especially major depression
Anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety and panic disorder
Substance abuse or dependence
Signs and Symptoms of these will be discussed in later slides.
And this slide shows, in very general and easy to remember terms, the basic characteristics that Marines
will feel and experience in each zone. Let’s go through them all now.
Ready: the Green Zone
The Green Ready zone can be defined as encompassing adaptive coping, effective functioning in all spheres, and personal well-being. The ability to remain in the Green zone under stress, and to return quickly to it once impaired or injured by stress, are two crucial aspects of resiliency. Following are some of the attributes
and behaviors characteristic of the Green Ready zone:
Remaining calm and steady
Being confident in self and others
Getting the job done
Remaining in control physically, mentally, and emotionally
Behaving ethically and morally
Retaining a sense of humor
Sleeping enough
Eating the right amount
Working out and staying fit
Playing well and often
Remaining active socially and spiritually
Reacting: the Yellow Zone
The Yellow Reacting zone can be defined as encompassing mild and temporary distress or loss of function due to stress. By definition, Yellow zone reacting is always temporary and reversible. The following experiences, behaviors, and symptoms may be characteristic of the Yellow Reacting zone:
Feeling anxious
Worrying
Cutting corners on the job
Being short tempered or mean
Being irritable or grouchy
Having trouble falling asleep
Eating too much or too little
Feeling apathetic or losing energy or enthusiasm
Not enjoying usual activities
Keeping to oneself
Being overly loud or hyperactive
Being negative or pessimistic
Having diminished capacity for mental focus
Injured: the Orange Zone
The Orange Injured zone can be defined as encompassing more severe and persistent forms of distress or loss of function that cannot be fully undone over time. Although stress injuries cannot be undone, as for physical injuries, their usual course is to heal over time. Since stress injuries are not clinical mental disorders, they do not require clinical mental health expertise to recognize them, although operational commanders and small unit leaders rely heavily on their chaplains and organic medical personnel to identify Orange zone stress injuries.
Stress injuries include:
Losing control of one’s body, emotions, or thinking
Being frequently unable to fall or stay asleep
Waking up from recurrent, vivid nightmares
Feeling persistent, intense guilt or shame
Feeling unusually remorseless
Experiencing attacks of panic or blind rage
Losing memory or the ability to think rationally
Being unable to enjoy usually pleasurable activities
Losing grounding in previously held moral values
Displaying a significant and persistent change in behavior or appearance
Harboring serious suicidal or homicidal thoughts
Ill: the Red Zone
The Red Ill zone can be defined as including all mental disorders arising in individuals exposed to combat or other operational stressors. Since Red zone illnesses are clinical mental disorders, they can only be diagnosed by health professionals. However, Marines can and should be aware of the characteristic symptoms of stress illnesses. Common Red zone illnesses include the following:
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Depressive disorders, especially major depression
Anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety and panic disorder
Substance abuse or dependence
Signs and Symptoms of these will be discussed in later slides.
20. Recognizing Stress Problems Here are characteristics that you Marines may exhibit if you are in the ready or reacting zones. Upon return, service member may experience some of these normal responses to operational stress. These are mostly normal responses to additional stress that happens
in combat or operational settings. The goal is to keep or return every Marine to the Green zone where you are “good to go” and “in control.”
These are normal reactions. The goal is for Yellow zone behavior to move back toward Green.
Here are characteristics that you Marines may exhibit if you are in the ready or reacting zones. Upon return, service member may experience some of these normal responses to operational stress. These are mostly normal responses to additional stress that happens
in combat or operational settings. The goal is to keep or return every Marine to the Green zone where you are “good to go” and “in control.”
These are normal reactions. The goal is for Yellow zone behavior to move back toward Green.
21. Recognizing Stress Problems These are the signs that we need to watch for in each other, and in ourselves. In theatre, these definitely impact individual and unit readiness. Now that you are transitioning home, these are signs and symptoms that indicate a Marine may be at risk for long term stress problems. It is the responsibility of leaders to see that Marines in these zones get professional mental health assistance. These are the signs that we need to watch for in each other, and in ourselves. In theatre, these definitely impact individual and unit readiness. Now that you are transitioning home, these are signs and symptoms that indicate a Marine may be at risk for long term stress problems. It is the responsibility of leaders to see that Marines in these zones get professional mental health assistance.
22. Stress Outcome Spectrum: Reactions Versus Injuries Stress reactions may be illustrated by the tree on the left: the Marine, like this tree, will bend and bend, but won’t break. Reactions, like the windstorm that is stressing this tree, are temporary. However, if the windstorm persisted for days and days on end, it might break the tree as illustrated in the picture of the tree on the right. It’s not because the tree is weak, but because there is too much stress. This break can be healed if it receives prompt help, but it could leave a scar. Physical injuries are obvious, but stress reactions, injuries, and even illnesses are often invisible and hard to detect. Red flags include uncharacteristic changes in behavior, some of which we will cover in detail later in the brief. It’s important for you to know these signs and symptoms of injuries, so you can help take care of your Marine buddy, and help keep him good to go.
Stress injuries may require professional help to get better.
Stress reactions may be illustrated by the tree on the left: the Marine, like this tree, will bend and bend, but won’t break. Reactions, like the windstorm that is stressing this tree, are temporary. However, if the windstorm persisted for days and days on end, it might break the tree as illustrated in the picture of the tree on the right. It’s not because the tree is weak, but because there is too much stress. This break can be healed if it receives prompt help, but it could leave a scar. Physical injuries are obvious, but stress reactions, injuries, and even illnesses are often invisible and hard to detect. Red flags include uncharacteristic changes in behavior, some of which we will cover in detail later in the brief. It’s important for you to know these signs and symptoms of injuries, so you can help take care of your Marine buddy, and help keep him good to go.
Stress injuries may require professional help to get better.
23. Mechanisms of Stress Injury Point: three types of injury – biological, psychological, social that compound each other. Of special note is the “biological”
nature of a stress injury. Note the problems on the left (memory, overreaction) and the area of the brain or chemicals
of the brain (hippocampus, amygdala) that are disrupted and even damaged by stress injuries. The take away on this
is that, like the trees in our slide previous to this one, if enough stress is endured or suffered, the brain is subject
to “break” in a real physiological way. It’s like “blowing a fuse.” Stress injuries not only affect our psychological and
social lives, they affect our brain chemistry!
Take a look at the psychological and social aspects of what a stress injury may affect. Have any of these things ever
been experienced by you?Point: three types of injury – biological, psychological, social that compound each other. Of special note is the “biological”
nature of a stress injury. Note the problems on the left (memory, overreaction) and the area of the brain or chemicals
of the brain (hippocampus, amygdala) that are disrupted and even damaged by stress injuries. The take away on this
is that, like the trees in our slide previous to this one, if enough stress is endured or suffered, the brain is subject
to “break” in a real physiological way. It’s like “blowing a fuse.” Stress injuries not only affect our psychological and
social lives, they affect our brain chemistry!
Take a look at the psychological and social aspects of what a stress injury may affect. Have any of these things ever
been experienced by you?
24. Stress Management Tools Combat Stress Decision Matrix
Individual Stress Management Tools
COSC Leadership Skills
Stress Management Professional Resources These are some of the resources, or tools, we will be teaching to help you with basic management and coping
for stress problems.These are some of the resources, or tools, we will be teaching to help you with basic management and coping
for stress problems.
25. Combat Operational Stress Decision Matrix The Decision Matrix may be used at any stage in the deployment cycle. It is a simple tool that is based
on the Continuum Model to help leaders evaluate Marines who may be suffering from combat stress problems.
The lists of stress symptoms on the far right, highlighted by the Yellow, Orange, and Red brackets, give the leader or Marine some indications of typical problems at each level of function. The diamonds in the middle specify decisions needed to determine the severity of the stress problem, and the boxes on the left indicate what action needs to be taken for each level of severity.
It can be used to self-evaluate and it can also be used by Marines to help their Marine friends who have symptoms
noted in the continuums shown previously, and briefly noted within this matrix itself.
The Decision Matrix may be used at any stage in the deployment cycle. It is a simple tool that is based
on the Continuum Model to help leaders evaluate Marines who may be suffering from combat stress problems.
The lists of stress symptoms on the far right, highlighted by the Yellow, Orange, and Red brackets, give the leader or Marine some indications of typical problems at each level of function. The diamonds in the middle specify decisions needed to determine the severity of the stress problem, and the boxes on the left indicate what action needs to be taken for each level of severity.
It can be used to self-evaluate and it can also be used by Marines to help their Marine friends who have symptoms
noted in the continuums shown previously, and briefly noted within this matrix itself.
26. Individual Stress Management Skills Physical Fitness to Maintain Stress Resilience
Breathing to Focus and Calm
Simplest – consciously slow down your breathing, make it deeper
Methodical Deep Breathing –full exhale/inhale, hold, relax, release, repeat (no more than 3)
Prayer or Meditation for Spiritual Resilience
Meditation
Listening – Close eyes, breath deeply, let daily troubles fade, focus on the sounds around you
Centering – do above, then imagine descending down into yourself, look for peace and silence, letting negative thoughts fade away
Physical Fitness is an outstanding way to de-stress, and is one of the most common and well-accepted by Marines.
Breathing To Focus and Calm
Methodical Deep Breathing
Directions: Try this exercise sitting, standing and lying down.
1. Exhale deeply, contracting the belly. 2. Inhale slowly as you expand the abdomen. 3. Continue inhaling as you expand the chest. 4. Continue inhaling as you raise the shoulders up towards your ears. 5. Hold for a few comfortable seconds 6. Exhale in reverse pattern, slowly. Release shoulders, relax chest, contract the belly. 7. Repeat.
Prayer and meditation can be done in almost any setting at any time with no special props
or preparation.
Journaling and expressive writing helps the Marines get their thoughts out and organized.
It also provides a “data-point” where Marines can look back and check how they were
doing and feeling at a particular point in time.
Physical Fitness is an outstanding way to de-stress, and is one of the most common and well-accepted by Marines.
Breathing To Focus and Calm
Methodical Deep Breathing
Directions: Try this exercise sitting, standing and lying down.
1. Exhale deeply, contracting the belly. 2. Inhale slowly as you expand the abdomen. 3. Continue inhaling as you expand the chest. 4. Continue inhaling as you raise the shoulders up towards your ears. 5. Hold for a few comfortable seconds 6. Exhale in reverse pattern, slowly. Release shoulders, relax chest, contract the belly. 7. Repeat.
Prayer and meditation can be done in almost any setting at any time with no special props
or preparation.
Journaling and expressive writing helps the Marines get their thoughts out and organized.
It also provides a “data-point” where Marines can look back and check how they were
doing and feeling at a particular point in time.
27. Individual Stress Coping Skills Journaling or Expressive Writing to Clear Your Head
Journaling
Writing about your experiences is very healing, and records your personal and family history
Expressive Writing
Writing with the intent to come to terms with the emotions and all the parts of the memories of an event has proven to be very helpful for long-term mental health
Writing to Heal, by James Pennebaker
To get better clarity on where you need to go, these techniques help you get your experiences in order. To get better clarity on where you need to go, these techniques help you get your experiences in order.
28. Monitor and be a good observer of stress continuum changes in Marines
Leadership (or friendship if peer) “by walking around”
Encourage unit cohesion
Short informal 1:1 conversations; availability
COSC is preventive in nature
Be able to identify on the COSC Continuum, and refer Marines for stress related problems
Encourage to find the appropriate level of assistance COSC Leadership Skills Briefly explain, in your own words, what each of these skills mean and a very quick explanation of
how to do it.Briefly explain, in your own words, what each of these skills mean and a very quick explanation of
how to do it.
29. Stress Management Professional Resources Corpsmen
Chaplains
Unit medical (BAS, RAS, GAS, etc.)
Operational Stress Control and Readiness (OSCAR) mental health team, if your unit has one
Medical Treatment Facilities (Hospitals and Clinics)
MLG Surgical Company Forward
Marine and Family Services Counselors
Military OneSource (www.militaryonesource.com)
Vet Centers (www.va.gov/rcs)
HQMC COSC (www.manpower.usmc.mil/cosc)
Marine Leaders Guide (www.usmc-mccs.org/ leadersguide)
30. Scenario One: The Marine
31. Scenario One: The Marine Answer
32. Scenario Two: The Spouse
33. Scenario Two: The Spouse Answer
34. Recap: What Was Good? [Note to Presenter: This is a Recap about the brief, centered on thoughts and feelings about the deployment. The next two questions involve more of the “Where have you been,” while still considering “Where are you now.”]
These changes are brought about by being away, by being in a combat environment, and simply by normal human growth and maturation. Some of the things that influenced or inspired, were actually very positive! What are some of the positive things you have taken away from this deployment? What were some good things that happened?
[Do a fresh brainstorm on, “What was positive?” Again, list answers for all to see. Same rules apply. Speak for self, or speak for others – just get the ideas up there. Move on when ideas trail off.] Did some of these things keep you Ready and in the Green zone on the stress continuum scale?[Note to Presenter: This is a Recap about the brief, centered on thoughts and feelings about the deployment. The next two questions involve more of the “Where have you been,” while still considering “Where are you now.”]
These changes are brought about by being away, by being in a combat environment, and simply by normal human growth and maturation. Some of the things that influenced or inspired, were actually very positive! What are some of the positive things you have taken away from this deployment? What were some good things that happened?
[Do a fresh brainstorm on, “What was positive?” Again, list answers for all to see. Same rules apply. Speak for self, or speak for others – just get the ideas up there. Move on when ideas trail off.] Did some of these things keep you Ready and in the Green zone on the stress continuum scale?
35. Recap: What Was Bad? There was also some stuff that was bad. This may have varied greatly for different individuals: what is painful to you, is painful to you. It is not made any less painful because someone else has something that seems worse. Be aware of your own pain and how it is affecting you and your Marine buddies. What was hard? What was difficult? What was painful? What was easy, but you still didn’t like it?
[Do a fresh brainstorm on, “What was bad?” Again, list answers for all to see.]
Have any of these put you or a Marine buddy you know in the Orange zone? Red zone? There was also some stuff that was bad. This may have varied greatly for different individuals: what is painful to you, is painful to you. It is not made any less painful because someone else has something that seems worse. Be aware of your own pain and how it is affecting you and your Marine buddies. What was hard? What was difficult? What was painful? What was easy, but you still didn’t like it?
[Do a fresh brainstorm on, “What was bad?” Again, list answers for all to see.]
Have any of these put you or a Marine buddy you know in the Orange zone? Red zone?
36. Recap: How Have You Changed? Earlier in the brief we discussed changes you may have gone through. Is that true? Do you think/feel that you have changed? Some of you have been through this before; some many times. How is this time different? How have you changed this time? So we can get an idea about how this deployment has affected everyone, we are going to do some listing. What are some of the ways you have changed on this deployment? Feel free to speak for others, though not by name, and list any changes you think may have occurred over this deployment.
[Brainstorm, “How have you changed?” Put answers up for all to see – by newsprint chart, white board, or on a computer connected to a proxima to project the responses. ]
[When ideas begin to trail off, even with some prompting on your part, proceed to the next slide.]Earlier in the brief we discussed changes you may have gone through. Is that true? Do you think/feel that you have changed? Some of you have been through this before; some many times. How is this time different? How have you changed this time? So we can get an idea about how this deployment has affected everyone, we are going to do some listing. What are some of the ways you have changed on this deployment? Feel free to speak for others, though not by name, and list any changes you think may have occurred over this deployment.
[Brainstorm, “How have you changed?” Put answers up for all to see – by newsprint chart, white board, or on a computer connected to a proxima to project the responses. ]
[When ideas begin to trail off, even with some prompting on your part, proceed to the next slide.]
37. Techniques for a Better Transition [Presenter identifies several issues that appear to recur in the discussions. Tackle each one with its own brainstorming list. Examples: What can a person do to get over this? What practice have you heard of that can help you regain a sense of strength and readiness; ability to get things done; ability to stay in control; ability to regain your sense of humor; ability to gain mastery over sleep, food, and recreational needs? Does doing this move Yellow, Orange, or Red zone stress reactions into the Green “Good to Go” zone for you?
[List answers for all to see, highlighting ones that help make a transition from Orange and Red zones toward Green.]
Here are some suggestions for the leader of this brief if this goes slowly:
Communication
Talk about it – to your buddies, and others
Develop Listening Skills – Take time, listen
Listening, not just hearing
Show appreciation to friends/spouse/others that supported you
Hang out with deployment buddies, keep in touch
Self-Adjustment
Take it slow. Go Slow
Rest
Take deep breaths
Me time – Take time for yourself
Situational awareness: ORM
Think before you act
Realize what you are doing wrong
Plan ahead
Spiritual reconnection
Marital check ups
Get help if needed
Things to do
Take leave/readjustment time
PT and Play sports
Develop hobbies
Get into a new Routine
Spiritual routines
Be creative
Camping trips
Travel, Vacation
Invest yourself in something new
Get sleep
Dealing with Memories
Start a Journal
Expressive Writing
Acceptance
Optimism
Remember, but Compartmentalize
Move beyond OIF
Be open minded
[Presenter identifies several issues that appear to recur in the discussions. Tackle each one with its own brainstorming list. Examples: What can a person do to get over this? What practice have you heard of that can help you regain a sense of strength and readiness; ability to get things done; ability to stay in control; ability to regain your sense of humor; ability to gain mastery over sleep, food, and recreational needs? Does doing this move Yellow, Orange, or Red zone stress reactions into the Green “Good to Go” zone for you?
[List answers for all to see, highlighting ones that help make a transition from Orange and Red zones toward Green.]
Here are some suggestions for the leader of this brief if this goes slowly:
Communication
Talk about it – to your buddies, and others
Develop Listening Skills – Take time, listen
Listening, not just hearing
Show appreciation to friends/spouse/others that supported you
Hang out with deployment buddies, keep in touch
Self-Adjustment
Take it slow. Go Slow
Rest
Take deep breaths
Me time – Take time for yourself
Situational awareness: ORM
Think before you act
Realize what you are doing wrong
Plan ahead
Spiritual reconnection
Marital check ups
Get help if needed
Things to do
Take leave/readjustment time
PT and Play sports
Develop hobbies
Get into a new Routine
Spiritual routines
Be creative
Camping trips
Travel, Vacation
Invest yourself in something new
Get sleep
Dealing with Memories
Start a Journal
Expressive Writing
Acceptance
Optimism
Remember, but Compartmentalize
Move beyond OIF
Be open minded
38. Questions?
