Soldiers face many challenges during their time in combat, including managing physical injuries and dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Another common issue that they may encounter is how to handle the emotions of their partner while away on deployment. Partners can experience high levels of anxiety and fear due to separation from loved ones, which can lead to feelings of depression, isolation, and loneliness. This can be difficult for soldiers who are already struggling with PTSD symptoms. In this article, I will discuss some ways that soldiers can process these reactions from partners who struggle with anxiety related to deployment.
The first step for soldiers is to recognize the signs of anxiety in their partner before it becomes too severe. Some common signs include difficulty sleeping, irritability, and changes in appetite. They should also pay attention to any statements made by their partner about feeling alone or helpless. Once soldiers have identified these signs, they need to find ways to communicate effectively with their partner. Soldiers should listen carefully to what their partner says and make sure to respond in a way that shows empathy and understanding. It is important to avoid making judgments or blaming them for their feelings. Instead, they should focus on offering support and assistance.
Another strategy for soldiers is to seek help from mental health professionals if necessary. If their partner has been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or panic disorder, there may be specific treatments available that can help them manage their symptoms. These treatments could involve cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). By seeking professional help, soldiers can gain valuable insight into how to best support their partner during deployment.
Soldiers should consider setting boundaries with their partner regarding communication while deployed. This means establishing clear expectations for when and how often they will contact each other, as well as what topics are off limits.
They may choose not to discuss specific details about combat operations due to security concerns. Soldiers should also ensure that their partner knows how to reach out if they experience an emergency or crisis while away.
Soldiers should take care of themselves physically and mentally while away on deployment. They should maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine, get adequate rest, and engage in activities that bring them joy and relaxation. By taking good care of themselves, soldiers can better manage the emotional demands of being apart from their loved ones.
Dealing with partners who struggle with anxiety related to deployment can be challenging for soldiers.
By recognizing signs early, communicating effectively, seeking help when needed, setting boundaries, and taking care of themselves, they can provide the support and understanding necessary to help their partners through this difficult time.
How do soldiers process emotional reactions from partners who struggle with anxiety related to deployment?
It is important for military members' spouses to express their concerns about being left behind when their partner deploys for an extended period of time. The fear of losing someone they love can be overwhelming and trigger feelings of isolation and loneliness that may lead to anxiety. When their significant other returns home after a tour of duty, it is essential that they feel supported by their loved ones.