For many soldiers, adjusting to a deployment can be extremely difficult. Likewise, when a soldier returns home to his or her family, the adjustment can be just as challenging. Perhaps these adjustments are affecting the rate of military divorce in Louisiana since the start of the Iraq War 10 years ago.

According to recent studies, the divorce rate has increased by 42 percent among members of the military. In a recent post, we noted that there are reports that suggest the current divorce rate is the highest it has been since 1999. Insights into this trend are varied but may prove to be helpful for those Louisiana couples currently experiencing the difficult adjustment.

It is suggested that the first 90 days of a deployment and the first 90 days when a soldier returns home are the most difficult in a military relationship. The coping skills of soldiers, especially upon their return home, likely have a serious effect on the relationship. This may be particularly true with younger soldiers.

Spouses also develop new habits when the other is gone. These new habits that are developed may set the tone of a marriage. Upon a soldier's return, reintegration into that same habitual behavior may not be easy or possible. A couple may need to relearn how to communicate with each other as well.

Among other possible explanations, these adjustments may seriously affect the chance that a marriage can survive. When it cannot, a spouse may want to work with a legal professional who understands the different facets that may be present in a military divorce. There may be military retirement benefits to be distributed, child support guidelines to follow, and special accommodations afforded to military personnel.

Source: Citizen Link, "Iraq War Drives Military Divorce Rate Up," Karla Dial, Jan. 3, 2012