In this episode we share the raw story of a mother navigating life while her partner is deployed. From managing a sick child and personal health struggles to marital challenges and moments of deep despair, she opens up about the overwhelming stress of solo parenting during deployment.

But this story is also about hope and resilience. Through intentional self-care, building a supportive community, and finding ways to help her daughter overcome separation anxiety, she demonstrates that even the toughest times are temporary.

Whether you’re a parent, military spouse, or someone facing life’s unexpected challenges, this episode is a reminder that you are not alone—and that with support, reflection, and small steps forward, life can improve.

To submit an anonymous story, please feel free to contact me through any form of social media or via email at: marycatswilson@gmail.com. Thank you!

Resources Available

Postpartum Support International: https://www.postpartum.net

National Parent Helpline: 1-855-427-2736

Military OneSource: https://www.militaryonesource.mil

References

Karney, B., & Crown, J. (2007). Families Under Stress: An Assessment of Data, Theory, and Research on Marriage and Divorce in the Military. RAND Corporation.

RAND Corporation. (2012). The Effects of Deployment on Military Families.

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2020). Separation Anxiety in Children.

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2021). Alcohol and Stress.

Cohen, S., & Wills, T. A. (1985). Stress, Social Support, and the Buffering Hypothesis. Psychological Bulletin, 98(2), 310–357.