Relationships are prone to stress, and it is no different for those serving in the military. Operational stress can be defined as "a psychological reaction that can occur when an individual experiences extreme physical or mental exhaustion, prolonged high levels of stress, or traumatic events" (Lee et al., 2018). This type of stress takes its toll on both the person and their relationship. Therefore, coping strategies can help preserve relational resilience under repeated operational stress. Coping strategies include seeking support from family and friends, self-care, communication, and problem-solving.
Seeking support from family and friends
Seeking support from family and friends can be crucial during times of stress. When an individual is feeling stressed, they may withdraw and isolate themselves from others.
This does not help them cope with the situation. Instead, reaching out to loved ones and allowing them to provide emotional support can be beneficial. Family members and friends can offer comfort, understanding, and advice. They can also serve as a sounding board for venting frustrations.
Relationships benefit from regular check-ins to maintain closeness and connection.
A veteran could call his wife every day after work to share how their day went. This helps keep her updated on his whereabouts while providing an opportunity for him to unload any negative feelings.
Self-care is another effective coping strategy for preserving relational resilience under repeated operational stress. Individuals should prioritize their well-being by engaging in activities that promote relaxation, such as exercise, meditation, or journaling. Self-care allows individuals to recharge and refocus on their needs instead of solely focusing on their partner's needs. It also helps manage stress levels before they become too overwhelming.
A soldier could take time each morning to go for a jog or practice yoga before starting their day.
Communication is vital to maintaining healthy relationships, especially during times of stress. Couples need to communicate openly about their experiences and feelings to understand one another better. Communicating effectively requires active listening and empathetic responses. Active listening involves paying attention without interruption and repeating back what was said. Empathic responses involve acknowledging someone else's feelings and validating them (Norris et al., 2015).
A spouse could ask their husband about his experience at the base and actively listen to what he says. Then, she can express understanding and offer support.
Problem-solving strategies are crucial when dealing with relationship issues related to operational stress. The couple must identify problems and come up with solutions together. Problem-solving involves brainstorming possible solutions, evaluating them, and selecting the best option. This process takes time and patience but can improve communication and strengthen the relationship.
If a veteran feels frustrated about his wife not understanding his job requirements, they can sit down and discuss ways to bridge the gap. They might decide to take a class on military life or participate in activities that bring them closer together.
Coping strategies such as seeking support from family and friends, self-care, communication, and problem-solving help preserve relational resilience under repeated operational stress. These strategies enable individuals to manage stress levels, connect with loved ones, and work through relationship issues. By implementing these strategies, couples can remain strong and resilient even in challenging circumstances.
Which coping strategies preserve relational resilience under repeated operational stress?
Relational resilience is the capacity of people within an organization to adapt to change and maintain healthy relationships despite experiencing chronic challenges that can negatively impact their interpersonal connections. The ability to cope with operational stressors effectively helps maintain positive relationships among individuals in organizations, thereby preserving relational resilience.