Soldiers have to deal with significant psychological stress due to being away from their loved ones for long periods. In most cases, they cope with this stress by relying on various coping strategies that help them stay sane.
These coping strategies may differ among partners, which can lead to relational strain. This article discusses how soldiers navigate such strains in their relationships.
One common way soldiers cope with stress is through the support of their partner. They rely on their partner's emotional and physical support when they feel alone and vulnerable. When one partner has different coping mechanisms than the other, it can create tension in the relationship.
If one partner prefers to talk about their feelings while another likes to keep things bottled up, this could lead to misunderstandings and arguments. Soldiers must learn to accept their partners' different ways of dealing with stress and try to find compromises that work for both parties.
Another way soldiers cope with stress is through sex and intimacy. Sex can provide a sense of comfort and closeness during times of stress.
Not all partners view sex as a healthy coping mechanism. Some prefer to engage in sexual activity infrequently or avoid it altogether. Soldiers who rely on sex to cope with stress should communicate openly with their partners and respect their boundaries.
Soldiers need to make time for themselves to relax and unwind. Self-care activities like meditation, exercise, and hobbies can help soldiers manage their stress levels. Partners should encourage their soldier spouses to take care of themselves and support them in pursuing these activities. If one partner relies heavily on self-care while the other wants more connection, this can also create tension. The two must communicate and negotiate to reach a balance.
Navigating relational strain caused by differences in coping mechanisms requires patience, communication, and understanding from both partners. By working together, soldiers can build strong relationships despite their unique coping strategies.
How do soldiers navigate relational strain caused by differences in partners' coping mechanisms?
Soldiers may encounter various stressors during their military service such as combat, deployments, physical and mental injuries. These stressors can lead to a range of difficulties including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and relationship problems. Relationship strains are common among those who have experienced trauma during active duty due to changes in behavioral patterns, communication styles, and emotional regulation skills.