Can intimate support reduce the cumulative psychological effects of repeated deployments? Deployments can have many negative effects on soldiers' mental health, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and suicidal thoughts. These problems may cause relationship issues for both the deployed soldier and their loved ones back home. This is because deployments are stressful, isolating, and challenging for everyone involved. But, what if you could get some emotional and physical closeness before, during, and after deployment to help you cope better with these difficulties? Can intimate support provide this relief? The answer may surprise you!
Supporting your significant other while they serve has been shown to decrease the impact of repeated deployments. In one study, soldiers who received intimate support had less depression than those who did not receive it. Another study found that couples who engaged in intimacy during deployment were more likely to stay together afterwards. This suggests that intimate support may be an effective way to manage the challenges of military life.
Intimate support means spending time together physically and emotionally before, during, and after deployment. It includes hugging, cuddling, kissing, holding hands, massages, watching TV or movies, talking about feelings, sharing meals, going out together, and anything else you enjoy doing with your partner. While deployed, you can send care packages, letters, emails, pictures, and videos. You can also talk on the phone or Skype regularly. All these things help strengthen your bond and show them that you still love each other.
Why does intimate support work so well? Intimacy increases oxytocin levels in our bodies which reduces stress and improves mood. Oxytocin is a hormone released when we feel close to someone else. This can help us relax and feel happy even under difficult circumstances. Physical contact like hugs and hand-holding releases oxytocin too. Also, regular communication lets partners know how much they mean to each other no matter where they are.
But what if your loved one isn't interested in intimacy? Try different ways to get closer. Watch their body language for signs of interest, ask them questions about themselves, and tell them how much you appreciate them. Don't give up - keep trying! A little effort goes a long way towards improving relationships.
Remember: intimate support doesn't solve all problems related to deployments. But it can make things easier by helping couples stay connected through challenges and difficulties. When soldiers return from deployment, they may need time to adjust back into civilian life again. Patience, understanding, and reassurance go a long way towards making this transition smoother.
Intimate support is essential for maintaining strong bonds during deployments. It can help prevent depression, anxiety, PTSD, and suicidal thoughts among deployed soldiers. For those who have experienced multiple deployments, it may be especially helpful because it reminds both parties why they are together despite the obstacles in between them.
Can intimate support reduce the cumulative psychological effects of repeated deployments?
The research supports that intimate support can reduce the negative mental health consequences of recurring deployment in veterans by improving their resilience, reducing anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms, increasing positive coping strategies, and facilitating social connection with family members and friends. The intimacy of relationships provides a safe space for veterans to process combat trauma, develop trust and intimacy, and feel understood and valued.