Soldiers face unique challenges when trying to reconnect with their partners after extended separations due to military service or dangerous situations. Reestablishing trust is essential for building healthy relationships.
To help couples overcome the effects of PTSD, trauma, and anxiety caused by combat experiences, experts recommend open communication, honesty, and patience. This article explains strategies that have been proven effective.
How soldiers can rebuild emotional trust
Communicate honestly about your needs
Soldiers should communicate openly and honestly with their partner about their feelings and expectations. They must be aware of their own mental health issues and how they affect them both emotionally and physically. It's important to share what you need from your partner without making assumptions or placing blame.
"I feel lonely" or "I need space." By being clear about their desires, soldiers set themselves up for success in communicating effectively.
Be patient with yourself and your partner
Soldiers should remember that it may take time to heal from traumatic experiences and develop new routines and expectations. They should give themselves permission to process their thoughts and emotions gradually, but also make an effort to understand their partner's perspective. Listen actively and provide a supportive environment where both people feel safe discussing difficult topics. Don't rush through this process; let the relationship develop naturally over time.
Set realistic goals together
Setting achievable goals together as a couple will allow both parties to feel a sense of accomplishment when progress is made. Discuss specific ways in which you would like to grow closer together, such as shared hobbies or activities, dates nights out on the town, or special date nights at home. Share your hopes for future plans together and create action steps toward achieving those dreams. This will help strengthen your bond while working towards common goals.
Acknowledge changes in your partner
Fourth, acknowledge any changes in your partner caused by the separation or deployment. Your partner may have developed new interests or habits that could be challenging to accommodate initially. Respect these differences while showing appreciation for the person they are becoming. Remind them often how much you value their presence in your life.
Focus on your own needs before trying to meet your partner's
Focus first on your own needs before attempting to fulfill your partner's desires. If you don't take care of yourself physically, emotionally, and mentally, it can be difficult to fully connect with your partner on a deeper level. Work on self-care practices such as exercise, meditation, or therapy sessions before engaging in physical intimacy.
Remember, rebuilding trust takes time after periods of prolonged separation or danger. Be patient, open, honest, and supportive throughout the process. With effort from both parties, soldiers can experience renewed closeness and intimacy with their partners.
How do soldiers rebuild emotional trust with partners after periods of prolonged separation or danger?
When a soldier experiences lengthy separations from their partner, it can be difficult to rebuild emotional trust due to potential traumatic events experienced during deployment. It may require patience, understanding, open communication, and support from both parties involved to overcome these challenges. Each individual's experience is unique and requires tailored approaches for successful relationship rebuilding.