One of the main factors distinguishing a military family from other families in the Church is the frequent and sometimes prolonged periods of family separation associated with military duty. Spouses who remain at home with the children face challenges similar to those of single parents. The family's challenges may be spiritual and emotional but can also include "everyday" temporal issues such as car repairs, lawn care, snow removal, transportation, finances, child care, work, and school. While the family at home is confronted with these issues, the deployed service member must focus on the military mission.

Families at home will benefit greatly by asking visiting teachers or other Church members to help relieve some of the pressure by providing breaks and activities that can uplift the spouse who remains at home. Relief Society programs, activities, and sisterhood can be a great help for the wives of military members during these times. In families where the military member is a son or daughter who has deployed, letters of encouragement from ward leaders and members can have a profound impact on deployed members and strengthen them in their resolve to live the gospel.

Although family separations are never easy, positive experiences can take place in the lives of those affected as they strive to grow closer to the Savior and increase their spirituality.

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