Strategies to Enhance Relational Satisfaction and Resilience Among LGBT Service Members During Extended Deployments
The U.S. Armed Forces have made significant progress towards creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) service members, but these individuals still face unique challenges that can impact their mental health and resilience during deployment. One such challenge is maintaining strong relational bonds with partners or loved ones back home while stationed away from them for extended periods. This article will explore some strategies that can help enhance relational satisfaction and resilience among LGBT service members during deployments.
Communication Strategies
Communicating regularly with family and friends back home is crucial for maintaining relational bonds during deployment.
It's also important to prioritize quality over quantity when communicating. This means taking time to focus on each conversation and making sure you are actively listening and responding to your partner's needs. It's also helpful to set aside dedicated time every day for communication, whether it be through phone calls, video chats, or messaging.
Keeping a journal or journaling app can provide a way to express thoughts and feelings in a more personal and private manner, which can be especially beneficial for LGBT individuals who may not feel comfortable sharing certain aspects of themselves with others.
Social Support
Building a network of social support before deployment can help LGBT service members feel less isolated and alone during deployment. This could include connecting with other LGBT service members or allies in the military community, joining local LGBT groups or organizations, or reaching out to friends and family members who are understanding and supportive. During deployment, staying connected with this network can provide emotional support and help reduce stress levels.
Self-Care
Prioritizing self-care is essential for managing stress and maintaining mental health during deployment. This includes getting enough sleep, eating well, exercising regularly, and practicing mindfulness techniques like meditation or deep breathing. It's also important to seek professional help if needed, whether that's counseling, therapy, or support from chaplains or psychologists within the military. Taking care of oneself physically and mentally can help improve overall resilience and relational satisfaction.
Boundaries and Expectations
Setting clear boundaries and expectations around communication, intimacy, and commitment can help avoid misunderstandings and conflicts during deployment. This means discussing expectations upfront and being transparent about needs and limitations.
Setting realistic goals and priorities can help manage expectations and prevent disappointments.
Listening actively and empathetically to one's partner back home is crucial for maintaining strong relationships during deployment. This means paying attention to what they say, asking follow-up questions, and responding in a way that shows you understand their perspective. It's also important to be open to feedback and willing to compromise when necessary.
Flexibility and Adaptability
Deployments often involve unexpected changes and challenges, so flexibility and adaptability are key to staying resilient. LGBT service members may need to adjust their routines and expectations as circumstances change, but doing so can lead to greater satisfaction and stronger bonds with loved ones.
There are several strategies that can enhance relational satisfaction and resilience among LGBT service members during extended deployments. These include maintaining quality communication, building social support networks, prioritizing self-care, setting clear boundaries and expectations, and practicing active listening. By implementing these strategies, LGBT individuals can feel more connected, supported, and satisfied during this difficult time.
What strategies enhance relational satisfaction and resilience among LGBT service members during extended deployments?
There are several strategies that can be implemented by military leaders to enhance relational satisfaction and resilience among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) service members during extended deployments. One strategy is to provide support groups for LGBT service members where they can discuss their experiences and share their challenges with other LGBT individuals who understand their struggles.