TPS Real Talk: PCSing during a Pandemic
We milspouses know a thing or two about moving. We have learned when to start packing our household items at just the right time, we’ve scoured the depths of the internet for moving organization spreadsheets and we’ve learned to expect bumps in the road when it comes to a military move. However, for many of us, 2020 elevated the normal PCS process, increased stress and heightened awareness of how little control we actually have.
Today we are joined by Khianna Kaminske, our TPS SEO Specialist, graphic designer, travel extraordinaire and of course a milspouse.
Khinna, tell us a little about your recent PCS.
At the end of 2019, we PCS’ed from South Korea to Utah. I had a family member whose Cancer evolved to stage 4 and they needed family help for a few months. As a family, we thought this was the best decision because my spouse had to do career training on the East Coast.
After four months in Utah, COVID-19 happened. My spouse’s six month training was cancelled and we headed to Hawaii in April 2020. We went from living with my in-laws to living in a hotel room for six months and waiting out COVID-19 restrictions.
What was your stress level coming into this move compared to others?
This was our 11th move and it was the most stressful move that I ever experienced. I was finishing up my Master’s degree. My children’s schooling went virtual, so I was cooped up in a small hotel room with three children. Hawaii had strict rules regarding COVID-19 so the normal things that I was used to doing like searching for a house, buying a car, exploring our new PCS area were put on hold for a few months until restrictions were lifted.
How did you and your family manage this move and transition to a new community while having to maintain social distancing?
Since we were in transit before the government put a halt on PCS moves, we were able to move to Hawaii. We arrived and had to do a 14-day quarantine, but it turned into a very long stay-at-home order. Masks are required to wear in Hawaii. We were familiar with wearing masks when we lived in South Korea, so that was an easy transition for us.
The transition in our community has been difficult. Our children’s normal activities have all moved online. I miss being able to meet new people face-o-face and engaging in other activities.
How has the increase of virtual connections helped you during this move?
It takes courage to ask for help. I’ve asked for a mental health check-in with close friends and scheduled more chats with a variety of people the past year.
Career virtual connections have been pivotal in helping me find a job in our new location too, so I’ve connected with a lot of military spouses and veteran organizations this year.
For others preparing to move, do you have any wise words to share?
Breathe, medidate, a good ole’ cry. It’s okay not to be okay. The biggest thing I’ve learned is that it’s okay to reach out to people when it gets overwhelming. I have found that being vulnerable shows courage. I’ve also been on the receiving end of phone calls of friends who need to vent their frustrations with me. Take care of your emotional health.
But if you don’t want to express these feelings of anxiety or depression with anyone, there are numerous hotlines and apps to help cope.
TPS Real Talk is here to be a reassuring voice in all the crazy that you’ve got this! You are not alone and we want to hear from you. Did you experience similar things as Khinna did? Or did you go through something completely different? Share your PCS stories with us here!
