How to Find an Air Force Wife Support Group

There are very unique challenges in being an Air Force wife. Frequent deployments and frequent moves mixed in with every day life can often be overwhelming. There are other Air Force spouses out there who are going through the same sorts of problems. Find an Air Force wife support group and find the friends and support you need.

Instructions

1. Visit your base's Airman and Family Readiness Center. The sole responsibility of those who work in the AFRC is to make sure your family is taken care of. They will have information about local events, support groups and other help available to you.

2. Strengthen your personal support network. The people already involved in your life like family, friends, neighbors and co-workers, can be life-savers. Keep in touch with them on a regular basis. Let them know how important they are to you and involve them in your life.

3. Get involved with your husband's squadron. There will be wives in charge of planning family gatherings. Attend the events, get to know people and get involved in helping out.

4. Read your local newspaper's calendar of events. Many local military support groups will list their events in the newspaper. If so, contact the group, attend an event and see if the group is for you.

5. Check online. The Internet is swimming with forums and support groups for Air Force wives. Some only include spouses from a certain Air Force base and others include any interested military spouse. Search around and see what you can find. When you find one you like, start posting comments and get to know your new support group.

6. Ask around. If you live in or near a military base, people in your area may know about local support groups. Ask friends, neighbors, clergy members or an employee at your local video store. They may be able to point you in the right direction.

7. Volunteer in your area. Find local organizations that support airmen and their families. Join in their projects. Chances are you will meet people who share your concerns, while helping other Air Force families at the same time.

Tips & Warnings

• Speak up. When you find a support group, attend a meeting or event and be brave about meeting and getting to know new people.

• Interact with positive people. It's easy to be sucked into relationships with people who whine or complain constantly. Try to limit your time with them and instead spend time with those who are optimistic and helpful.

• Wives of Special Operations airmen are not able to openly discuss their husband's deployments. If that's the case for you, find your support within your husband's squadron where you can speak freely.

• Support groups can do a lot, but they can't do everything. If you or a member of your family needs emotional care, seek the help of a doctor.

• Leave your husband's rank at the door when you're with your support group. Don't let stereotypes get in the way of helping each other.