The issues of military relationships can be surprising for some. There are deployments, re-deployments, field problems, moves, job changes just to name a few pressures on a couple.

That's where Strength at Home -- a new program funded by the Department of Defense can help ... even provide a couple $300 in compensation for joining the 10-week program.

Strength at Home specializes in improving the relationships between troops and their romantic partners, while also raising awareness on stress issues and those effects on relationships.

"The overall purpose is to implement Strength at Home military-wide. JBLM is the center of a much larger implementation. This is a good opportunity to partake in something that will be available to everyone,"  said Dr. Casey Taft of Boston University, the organization behind the program along with the Boston VA.

The Strength at Home program recognizes the importance of anonymity and works under full discretion. Group classes meet once a week for two hours over 10 weeks. The classes are intended for couples at any stage, whether they are already having problems and arguments, or for those looking for ways to prevent these issues.

The course begins with providing knowledge on post-trauma issues and how they affect an individual within a relationship. According to a study done by the University of Washington in 2008, Veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder are two to three times more likely to take part in intimate partner violence than veterans without.  Combat-related stress can also attribute to emotional problems, child abuse, and domestic violence.

The program also focuses on strengthening communication skills, problem-solving, and conflict management to create stronger relationships between servicemembers and their romantic partners, family members and friends. Couples may also be compensated up to $120 for participating. The classes run for 10 weeks at Madigan Army Medical Center.

Those interested in signing up or who have questions should click HERE

If you are in a violent relationship and in need of immediate help, contact Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Helpline 253.966.SAFE (7233).