Posted on June 26th, 2024.

When receiving Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders, it's common to feel a mix of emotions such as excitement, anxiety, and overwhelm. However, early preparation, creating a detailed moving timeline, organizing your household inventory, and gathering information about your new location can make the transition smoother. In this blog post, we will discuss expert tips for military families on navigating the PCS season.

Preparing for a Smooth PCS

When you receive your Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders, the first step is to take a deep breath and start early preparation. Early planning is your best friend for reducing stress and ensuring a smooth PCS. Begin by creating a moving timeline, including all critical milestones from now until the moving day, such as notifying your current landlord or real estate agent, contacting the new duty station's Housing Office for accommodation options, and setting dates for pack-out and move-in. Make sure you set reminders and allow some buffer time for unexpected delays. With a clear move timeline in hand, let's explore the organizational aspects. Start by conducting a thorough inventory of your household items. Create a list and categorize items into what you intend to take, donate, sell, or discard. This inventory not only helps in the packing process but also ensures nothing gets lost in transit. Use color-coded labels for different rooms and fragile items to make unpacking simpler.

Managing paperwork effectively is another important component of a military move. Keep all important documents in a separate, easily accessible file or folder. This should include your PCS orders, medical records, school records for children, birth certificates, marriage licenses, and any other important documents. Make digital copies as a backup in case anything gets lost. Research and gather information about your new location. Websites and social media groups for military spouses can be incredibly valuable for obtaining PCS tips and localized advice. Next, create an inventory of essential services you will need to set up upon arrival, such as schools, childcare, veterinary services for pets, and utility providers. Contact these services ahead of time to streamline your transition. Lastly, the physical process of packing can feel overwhelming. Begin early by packing non-essential items first and gradually move to the more frequently used belongings as the moving date approaches.

Emotional Support During Relocation

The impact of PCS on both adults and children can be significant. Frequent moves mean constantly adjusting to new environments, which can trigger stress and anxiety. For kids, leaving friends and familiar settings can spark feelings of loss and uncertainty. For adults, especially military spouses, PCS emotional experience may bring about anxiety related to job changes, the search for new community connections, and the overall disruption of daily routines. Address these emotional aspects by acknowledging that they're normal and shared by many in the military community. Talking openly about your feelings with your partner and children can encourage a collective process of emotional healing and adjustment.

To manage stress effectively, establish a family routine even in the middle of chaos. Maintaining certain family rituals, such as movie nights or morning walks, helps to instill a sense of normalcy and stability. Engage in mindfulness and relaxation techniques as a family. Mindful breathing exercises, yoga, or simply a few minutes of quiet time can significantly reduce stress levels. Military spouses PCS can particularly benefit from a robust support network. Establish connections with other military spouses PCS who are going through similar experiences. These connections can offer practical advice, emotional support, and even a good laugh during tough days. Don’t hesitate to seek external help if the emotional burden becomes too heavy. Remote counseling services can provide a safe space to express feelings and receive professional guidance. 

Building a New Community

When beginning to build a new community after a PCS, having a proactive mindset is key. Start by exploring the local military support structures available at your new duty station. Many bases have welcome centers or family readiness programs designed explicitly for new arrivals, offering a wealth of relocation support resources. Don’t hesitate to participate in newcomer briefings or orientations as these can provide you with pertinent information regarding the base and local community, and they are an excellent opportunity to meet other recently relocated families. You’ll find that shared experiences with fellow military families PCS can foster quick and deep connections. Leverage social media platforms and online groups dedicated to military families for tips and shared wisdom about acclimating to new locations. These virtual communities can also be a valuable source of moral support, helping to ease the sense of isolation that can accompany a move. Another effective strategy is to get involved in your new neighborhood or town. Seek out local community centers, libraries, or places of worship, which often host various events and activities that can help you bond with locals and other military families.

Engaging in activities that connect military families outdoors can be particularly beneficial for settling into a new environment. Outdoor activities like family hikes, community park outings, or local sports leagues not only provide a healthy way to relieve stress but also make a fantastic backdrop for spontaneous conversations and new friendships. Most military installations are located near natural attractions, so take advantage of these by organizing group trips with other families.

In terms of educational and developmental support, research community resources such as local schools, youth clubs, and extracurricular programs. These institutions are not just venues for learning and development but also promote parent-to-parent connections. For younger children, playgroups and story hours at local libraries can be a fun and low-pressure way to make friends and acclimatize. Volunteering is another excellent way to immerse yourself in the community and give back while building meaningful relationships. Look for volunteer opportunities at schools, community centers, or local nonprofits. Such involvement can offer a sense of purpose and belonging in your new location. Lastly, ensure to find and connect with a support network that can provide ongoing help as your family settles in. This can include local medical providers, counselors, and peer support groups who understand the complexities of military life and provide guidance.

Leveraging Military Resources

Leveraging military resources is an essential aspect when facing a PCS. One of the primary resources available is the Relocation Assistance Program (RAP). This program provides support to military families during a move. It typically includes counseling services, workshops, and seminars on moving tips and stress management, tailored to the unique needs of military life. You can access RAP through your base's Family Support Center or the Military and Family Support Center, depending on your branch of service.

RAP can also connect you to Military OneSource, which offers 24/7 support on various PCS aspects including legal advice, budgeting, and more. If you're unsure where to start, reach out to your base's RAP office as soon as your orders arrive. Another invaluable resource is the Housing Office at your new duty station. This office helps you navigate available on-base and off-base housing options. Working with the Housing Office early on ensures you understand your entitlements and the housing market in your new location. They can assist with lease reviews, provide school information and even aid in resolving disputes with landlords, which can be fundamental when you're unfamiliar with the area.

Financial strains are common during PCS, but resources like the Military and Family Life Counseling Program (MFLC) and financial readiness programs can offer personalized advice. These programs, accessible through base support centers, provide guidance on creating moving budgets, understanding allowances such as Dislocation Allowance (DLA), and tips for managing unexpected expenses. They also offer no-cost financial counseling services to help you stay on track. Another aspect of relocation support includes online resources. Websites like Plan My Move and Move.mil offer planning tools and checklists to keep your move organized. These platforms allow you to create a tailored moving plan, track progress, and access information on entitlements and benefits. Additionally, several apps are designed specifically for military moves, providing real-time updates and reminders.

Don't underestimate the value of official counseling services offered by the military. Programs like the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provide mental health support for both service members and their families, ensuring you have a safe space to express your concerns and receive professional guidance. If the stress of moving becomes overwhelming, remote counseling can offer flexibility and accessibility, bridging the gap during this transitional period. For children, School Liaison Officers (SLOs) on base can assist in the educational transition, providing information on local school systems and helping to facilitate a smooth transfer of school records. SLOs can connect you with youth services and programs designed to help children adjust and thrive in their new environment. By proactively leveraging these military resources, you not only avail practical assistance but also fortify your family’s emotional and financial resilience during a PCS.

Related: https://rise-alone-therapy.ueniweb.com/blog/building-resilience-in-military-families

Wrapping Up

Connecting with your new community and utilizing available resources can make all the difference during a PCS. Whether you're facing logistical hurdles or emotional challenges, remember that support is within reach.

At Rise Alone Therapy, we understand the importance of mental health for military families. Our online therapy services are designed to provide specialized support and equip families with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of military life. Like those we offer, remote counseling services can provide invaluable support during this transitional period. Our approach prioritizes your family's well-being, offering professional guidance in an accessible and flexible manner. 

Get in Touch: We're Here to Help!!

Reach us out at +1 (803) 968 2321 or [email protected]. Let’s work together to ensure your PCS experience is as smooth and stress-free as possible.