Update 3/20/03: Support Group for People with Loved Ones Deployed Overseas

Dear Lost and Confused:

Having a loved one in the military at this point must be difficult for you, and as you suggest, for anyone in this situation. The uncertainty of the political situation only makes that worse. Most of us find unpredictable and ambiguous situations more stressful than clear situations, and ones in which we have no control , more stressful than ones where we feel there is something we can do. In your situation, there is a great unknown in terms of knowing what will be happening to your loved one, and it is a situation over which you have no control. A support group is an excellent idea.

Getting a support group started takes a little homework. First, think about where other people in your situation might be found. If you are particularly interested in contacting other NIU students, then our staff would be able to help you and work with you. Some support groups start with something as simple as a personal ad in the Northern Star, inviting other students to get together at a particular time and place to share their concerns. One of the services our staff can offer is consulting with you about this, and how to get a group started in talking about this. I would encourage you to call CSDC directly and ask to consult with someone about this. I think that if we worked together, we could get the support group you are interested in going.

Waiting to hear from you,

Barb Wired