Publication Date

10-23-2007

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Abstract

Western Massachusetts military families will get help from two new support groups being offered by UMass Amherst's Psychological Services Center. Dr. Christopher Overtree, the PSC's Director, says the aim of the support groups is to help family members maintain a healthy relationship with their loved one in Iraq or Afghanistan, while meeting the daily demands of everyday life at home. Overtree says multiple tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, and extended deployments are taking their toll on the mental health of relatives. one of the groups will be for the parents and spouses of those that are on active duty abroad. The other will be specifically for the children of those in the military, and will use arts, crafts and games to help kids explore their concerns about their parents. both groups will begin meeting in November. Overtree says multiple tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, and extended deployments are taking their toll on the mental health of relatives. One of the groups will be for the parents and spouses of those that are on active duty abroad. The other will be specifically for the children of those in the military, and will use arts, crafts and games to help kids explore their concerns about their parents. Both groups will begin meeting in November.

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