Military service can be extremely stressful for both partners involved. Spouses of active duty service members often worry about their loved ones being away from home for extended periods of time. This anxiety may cause them to feel isolated, lonely, and unsure of what to do with themselves while waiting for their partner's return.
These feelings can lead to a lack of intimacy in the relationship, which can make it difficult to maintain emotional connection when they reunite. While it is possible to maintain emotional intimacy between deployed military couples, there are certain steps that should be taken to ensure this happens. Here are some tips:
1. Communication is key: During deployment, communication becomes even more important than usual. Military spouses should communicate regularly through phone calls, emails, letters, texts, etc., so that they stay connected with each other emotionally and mentally. They can also try to set up video chat dates or write love notes to one another during long separations.
2. Make plans: When spouses have a plan for how they will reconnect after deployment, it helps prevent feelings of loneliness and isolation during separation.
They might plan a vacation together or spend quality time with friends and family once the soldier returns home.
3. Set boundaries: Establishing clear boundaries regarding contact frequency and duration allows both parties to focus on other aspects of life without feeling guilty or like they're neglecting each other. Setting limits prevents resentment from building up over time. 4. Be present: Focus on the present moment instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future by focusing on things you enjoy doing together such as exercising, cooking meals, watching movies, playing games, reading books, taking walks, or anything else that brings you joy together. This way, your partner knows that he/she has your full attention. 5. Give yourself space: It may seem counterintuitive at first but giving yourself some "me" time to relax and unwind is essential for emotional health. Spend time with friends, take a class, volunteer, join clubs, go out alone sometimes—do whatever makes you feel good! 6. Take care of yourself physically: Eating well, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and practicing self-care are all crucial when dealing with stressful situations like military deployments. 7. Remember why you fell in love: Military couples often face many challenges throughout their relationship due to frequent moves and deployments. Reminders of what initially drew them together can help keep them connected emotionally even if physically apart. Whether it's photos, letters, or memorable moments shared while stationed elsewhere, remembering why you fell in love will strengthen your bond no matter how far away you might be from one another right now.
While deployed military couples must deal with unique challenges related to communication, intimacy, and connection, these tips can help them stay close despite separation. With patience and effort, they can maintain an intimate relationship that lasts beyond deployment and supports both partners through any future struggles they may encounter.
How do military couples maintain emotional intimacy when frequent deployments interrupt their relational routines?
The maintenance of emotional intimacy between military couples is challenging due to frequent deployments that interrupt their relational routines. Military personnel are required to be away from home for extended periods, which can result in feelings of loneliness, isolation, and disconnection. Additionally, deployment can lead to changes in communication styles, as well as financial strain, which can further impact the relationship (e. g. , increased stress levels).