Supporting Active-Duty Mothers & Their Transition Back into the Workforce

Supporting Active-Duty Mothers & Their Transition Back into the Workforce

By: Katherine Hand, Ashley Nelson, Susan Helms, Emily Dean, and Katrina Belvin

Supporting active-duty mothers as they transition back to work is essential to their success and wellbeing. Through the Department of Defense Military & Family Life Counseling (MFLC) program, Service members and their families have access to pediatric care within military treatment facilities. These specialized services strengthen family resilience during the critical first three years of a child’s life.

Magellan MFLC counselors embedded in pediatric clinics provide non-medical counseling, developmental guidance, and resource referrals during well-baby visits. As active-duty mothers return to the workplace, many report improvements in their overall wellbeing and parenting confidence thanks to this enhanced support model.

Addressing the Increasing Needs of Military Mothers

As the number of women serving in the military continues to rise—17.3% of the active-duty force as of 2021[1]—so does the need for tailored programs that support their unique challenges as parents. While various resources exist for women in the military, the MFLC program offers non-medical counseling that goes beyond physical care to address emotional and parenting needs in early childhood. This approach complements pediatric care and empowers mothers by connecting them with counseling, developmental guidance, and essential resources during reintegration.

 Bridging the Gap for Whole-Health Support

While programs like the Army’s Holistic Health and Fitness[2] initiative provide physical support, many active-duty mothers remain unaware of available resources for postpartum care and early parenting. The MFLC program helps bridge this gap. Magellan MFLC counselors advocate for comprehensive support, assisting mothers in accessing lactation accommodations, understanding maternity leave options, and processing the emotional challenges of returning to duty. This collaboration ensures mothers receive the holistic care they need for both physical and emotional wellbeing.

Magellan MFLC counselors often work with families who are navigating complex systems and limited awareness of available services such as the New Parent Support Program, Family Advocacy Program, or Military OneSource[3]. Logistical challenges, including childcare and scheduling conflicts, can prevent families from participating. Counselors promote coordination between existing programs and work to reduce these barriers by advocating for more flexible, accessible service delivery across the installation.

Looking Ahead: Strengthening the Support Network

The military pediatric care provided through the MFLC program significantly enhances early childhood and maternal support. Magellan MFLC counselors are continuing to expand collaboration with installation-based resources and local programs to create a seamless and supportive network for military mothers returning to work. This effort aligns with a broader mission to enhance the active-duty force’s readiness, resilience, and retention.

References

1. Roche, R., Manzi, J., & Bard, K. (2020). A double bind for the ties that Bind: A pilot study of mental health challenges among female US Army officers and impact on Family life. Journal of Veterans Studies, 6(1), 200. https://doi.org/10.21061/jvs.v6i1.164
2. 23-06-784-holistic-health-and-fitness-handbook- … (n.d.). https://api.army.mil/e2/c/downloads/2023/06/05/cd114d3b/23-06-784-holistic-health-and-fitness-handbook-jun-23-public-release-1.pdf
3. Department of Defense Releases Annual Demographics Report — Upward Trend in Number of Women Serving Continues. U.S. DOD 12/14/22. https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3246268/department-of-defense-releases-annual-demographics-report-upward-trend-in-numbe/#:~:text=In%202021%2C%20women%20made%20up,of%20the%20Guard%20and%20reserve

[1] https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3246268/department-of-defense-releases-annual-demographics-report-upward-trend-in-numbe/

[2] https://api.army.mil/e2/c/downloads/2023/06/05/cd114d3b/23-06-784-holistic-health-and-fitness-handbook-jun-23-public-release-1.pdf

[3] https://www.militaryonesource.mil/