In the modern age, technology has revolutionized the way people communicate and stay connected to one another.
This convenience comes at a cost. Deployment can be a major disruption for both parties involved, as it separates them physically, emotionally, and mentally. This separation can cause feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and frustration. When deployed, service members may struggle with their mental health, including anxiety and depression, leading to relationship difficulties upon returning home. They may have difficulty reintegrating into civilian life and connecting with loved ones who had different experiences while they were away. Individuals assess continuity by reflecting on shared memories, past interactions, and future plans. While deployments may create obstacles in these areas, there are ways to maintain continuity through communication, support networks, and mutual understanding.
Steps to Assess Continuity
1. Reflect on Shared Memories
Reflection is an important part of assessing continuity. When individuals reminisce about past experiences, they can see how far they've come together and what they still share. Sharing pictures or videos from previous deployments can help maintain that connection. Creating traditions during long-term deployments can also strengthen bonds.
Celebrating birthdays or anniversaries virtually can keep relationships strong despite distance.
2. Maintain Communication
Communication is key when dealing with deployment. Service members should communicate regularly with their partners, whether through phone calls, video chats, or emails. Open dialogue can ease fears and concerns, helping to maintain trust and intimacy even if physically apart. Partners should be honest and vulnerable, expressing emotions without judgment or resentment. Communication can take time and patience, but it's necessary for a successful relationship.
3. Utilize Support Networks
Support networks can provide additional resources for service members and partners. This could include family, friends, or online communities dedicated to military families. These networks offer emotional support, advice, and encouragement to help navigate the challenges of deployment. They can also provide practical assistance, such as childcare or financial planning. Having a network outside the immediate relationship can alleviate stress and prevent feelings of isolation.
4. Understand Each Other's Experiences
Deployment affects both parties in different ways. Service members may feel disconnected from civilian life, while partners struggle with loneliness and uncertainty. Listening to each other's needs and struggles can deepen understanding and empathy. Individuals should strive to put themselves in the other person's shoes, acknowledging their unique experiences and perspectives. When everyone understands each other's point of view, they can work together towards common goals and shared interests.
Although deployments create obstacles in relationships, individuals can maintain continuity by reflecting on past memories, communicating openly, utilizing support networks, and understanding each other's experiences. By doing so, they can strengthen their connection despite physical distance and build a stronger bond upon reintegration.
How do individuals assess continuity when deployments disrupt shared experiences?
When individuals are deployed to serve their country for an extended period of time, they may experience significant changes that can affect their sense of continuity. One way individuals assess continuity is by comparing themselves to others who have not been deployed, such as friends, family members, or coworkers. This comparison can help them feel more connected to people outside of the military community and provide a sense of stability and consistency.