Relationships between people who are in the armed forces can be challenging to maintain for many reasons, including frequent separations, long hours away from home, and a high level of stress that comes with being part of an active-duty unit.
One of the most significant obstacles is when trauma has affected their attachments to each other, causing them to feel distant and unavailable. This article will explore how military couples navigate relational tension caused by attachment issues resulting from trauma and offer practical tips for building a stronger bond despite these challenges.
Traumatic experiences like combat can make it difficult for service members to form strong emotional bonds with others because they may feel unsafe and struggle to trust themselves enough to open up emotionally. They may also have difficulty connecting sexually due to triggers that remind them of past trauma. When this happens, couples need to work through these issues together if they want to keep their relationship healthy and intimate.
It's essential for both partners to understand what kind of support system they need during times of stress or crisis.
One partner might prefer a hug while another needs more space after returning from deployment. Communicating about these differences early on before deployments allows couples to set clear expectations and avoid miscommunication later on.
Couples should establish regular communication channels throughout their time apart so that neither person feels isolated or alone during hard times. Daily video chats or phone calls help maintain closeness even when miles apart.
Sending letters or care packages can create a sense of togetherness that strengthens the connection between partners.
Recognizing each other's efforts during deployments shows appreciation for each other's sacrifice and demonstrates commitment beyond words alone.
Navigating relational tensions caused by trauma requires understanding your partner's needs and being willing to communicate openly about those needs. This way, military couples can work together towards building an intimate and secure relationship despite the difficulties presented by active duty life.
How do military couples navigate relational tension when trauma affects attachment, sexual desire, or emotional availability?
Military spouses often face unique challenges due to their partner's involvement in active duty, including separation during deployments, frequent relocations, and the risk of injury or death. These factors can impact communication, intimacy, and overall relationship satisfaction.