Separation Anxiety

The first major holiday since the start of the war in Iraq is next week and local families may be feeling the separation now more than ever. Many families with loved ones still overseas could be experiencing what is called separation anxiety. With Independence Day approaching, experts say the anxiety, fear and loneliness will only become more intense. "The big ones. The Thanksgiving, Christmas, but the Fourth of July is a special holiday cause of the way you focus in on the country, you focus in on patriotism. So it can be especially tough on family that`ve got somebody still overseas,"says Karl Wendt,Director, Christian Counseling Center. Experts say you can help friends and family who are separated from their loved ones. You can offer to babysit allowing the parent at home some time away. You can also offer to help with yard work or home repairs. Or set up an e-mail account for the family to share photos and news with their loved ones. But most importantly, lend an ear and be a faithful friend. Reported By: Jennifer Grannan