Family of Heroes

Users learn about warning signs of stress, when to be concerned, and how to act on concerns. The three virtual families share the stresses they felt following deployment. Users are then prompted to reflect upon signs of post-deployment stress they may have noticed in their veteran.

Users take on the role of Cindy as she speaks with her husband. He is experiencing PTSD and mild TBI and is very upset because of a misunderstanding with Cindy. Users practice how to de-escalating an argument and seek a respectful compromise.

Users assume the role of Terry as he talks to his wife Alicia, a member of the Army Reserves, who has been having a hard time reconnecting with her kids and returning to a civilian career. Users practice renegotiating family responsibilities and collaborating on solutions for problems.

Users assume the role of Silvia as she talks to her son, Chris, who recently left the Marines. He’s been isolating himself, drinking heavily, and acting recklessly. Users practice bringing up concerns, gathering information, and making a referral to mental health services.

Each virtual family shares how things have changed following the conversation challenges and how they’re overcoming their post-deployment challenges. The virtual coach emphasizes that the techniques users have learned can help them and their veterans transition to post-deployment life.

Throughout the simulation, users have access to a printable summary of best practices and a list of specific military and mental health resources available nationally and in their area. Kognito builds this list as a web page and customizes it for each client.

The simulation is available online 24/7. Users are asked to complete a post-survey to assess changes in skills, attitudes, and behavior. Clients can access usage reports and evaluation data via the Kognito client portal.