Soldiers are exposed to many difficult situations during their deployments that can change their internal and relational perspectives. They may experience trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, and grief which can alter how they view themselves and others. This article will explore how soldiers can rebuild healthy relationships after returning home from deployment.
When soldiers return from deployment, they may struggle to readjust to civilian life and find it difficult to reconnect with loved ones. This is because their experiences have changed them in ways that can be challenging to express verbally. One way soldiers can start to repair damaged relationships is by being open and honest about their feelings. It's important for both parties to communicate openly about what has happened while the soldier was away and how it has affected them emotionally.
Another key component to relationship reconstruction is setting boundaries. Soldiers need to establish clear guidelines for communication, trust, intimacy, and respect.
If the soldier wants time alone or space to process their emotions, this should be communicated clearly to their partner. Boundaries help prevent misunderstandings and build a stronger foundation for the relationship going forward.
Soldiers should seek professional support as needed. Therapy can provide a safe space to work through emotional issues related to deployment and facilitate productive dialogue between partners. Seeking therapy can also give the couple a third-party perspective on the relationship, which can be beneficial when working through difficult conversations.
Couples should focus on creating new memories together and finding enjoyment in shared activities. Going out on dates or trying new things can help foster connection and strengthen the bond between partners. Reconstructing relational meaning requires effort and dedication, but it's possible for soldiers to regain a healthy and fulfilling relationship after deployment.
How do soldiers reconstruct relational meaning when the cumulative effects of deployment have transformed internal and relational perspectives?
Soldiers may need to reconstruct their understanding of relationships after deployment by reflecting on how they experienced different cultures, people, and situations during their time away from home. They might compare their perceptions of themselves and others before and after deployment, consider how their experiences shaped their values and priorities, and work through any trauma or stress that affected their relationships. Reconnection with loved ones can also involve adjustments as both partners try to understand each other's needs and expectations.