National Guard members get help to deal with war stress

By Jeff Small

KSDK -- The stress from war can often present serious problems for members of the military.  On Saturday, Southwestern Illinois College is hosting an event to help National Guard members adjust to civilian life after returning from combat in Afghanistan.

The reintegration event at SWIC in Belleville will include more than 100 guard members and their families. Topics include everything from deployment stress to reconnecting with spouses and children.

"We don't want to have soldiers and airmen and say 'job well done' and then they are gone, they are still our friends and they are members of our families," said support specialist Dino Carlino.

Reintegration events are taking place at college campuses nationwide, including SWIC in Belleville.  Carlino calls it a one stop shop for critical help and information.

"Successful life strategies, couples and parenting, and we have things for single soldiers and airmen as well," Carlino said.

The SWIC reintegration event takes place at the Belleville campus in the varsity gymnasium. It runs from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.