054: How to Deal with Separation Anxiety in Relationships with Megan McCullough

Welcome back to The Communicate & Connect Podcast, where we explore the intricate dynamics of relationships and mental well-being, especially within military families. I'm your host, Dr. Elizabeth Polinsky, and today we delve into Episode 54: "How to Deal with Separation Anxiety in Relationships." Joining us is Megan McCullough, a licensed clinical social worker and military spouse with 19 years of experience navigating the unique challenges of military life.

In this episode, we'll uncover the often unspoken struggles faced by military spouses, who are expected to "suck it up" and push forward amidst frequent and abrupt separations. Megan shares her invaluable personal insights into the cultural and emotional hurdles, emphasizing the importance of validating these experiences and promoting open discussion. Together, we'll discuss the normalization of seeking therapy, the crucial role of communication, and finding effective coping mechanisms like grounding techniques and self-soothing.

This conversation sheds light on the messy realities of deployment and reintegration, from dealing with internal stigma to maintaining connections within dual-income households. Whether you're part of a military family or looking to understand more about separation anxiety, this episode offers practical advice and heartfelt encouragement. So, tune in as we navigate through the complexities of separation anxiety and strengthen our ability to communicate and connect.

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• Read the show notes for this episode here.