Self Care Comes First

Being a military spouse is not for the faint of heart. Constantly moving, long deployments, and uncertainty of where your loved one might be easily wears on you emotionally. These daily stressors make it very easy to put your personal needs on the back burner. However, prioritizing self-care is important, not only for your own good but for the well-being of your family and your military spouse.

Self-care is especially important for spouses in the military, who usually bear much of the emotional burden. We are the anchors to our families, providing stability and support at a time when everything seems to be falling apart. Neglecting our health and well-being can make it difficult for us to hold on to that strength required to support our loved ones. Taking care of ourselves allows us to be in the best possible state for managing the stresses brought on by military life and to be there for our families.

Self-care is so much more than pampering oneself with a spa day or bubble bath (although that’s important too!). It means making time to nurture one’s physical, mental, and emotional health: finding time for exercise, eating healthy foods, getting enough sleep, and seeking support when it’s needed. It also means allowing oneself to take breaks and engage in activities that bring joy and relaxation.

It’s easy to say that you’re going to incorporate self-care into your routine, but when you have little children and other responsibilities, it is actually pretty hard. Remember that self-care is the very opposite of selfishness: it’s actually a vital investment in your own health and happiness. Begin by taking small steps: dedicate at least a few minutes each day to yourself by reading a book, taking a walk, or simply sitting in silence (it’s hard but so rewarding!). We made a printable Self-Care Checklist to get your started!

Just remember: You’re not alone. Plenty of resources are out there for military spouses going through times of stress and self-care. Connect with your community, get involved in support groups, and never be afraid to ask for help. Remember: The best way to take care of others is to make sure you take care of yourself .

Find Out More with MyMilitarySavings.com!