Sustaining an emotional connection between partners is essential for maintaining healthy romantic relationships regardless of circumstance.
When one partner is deployed for extended periods of time, this can present unique challenges to the couple's bond. For LGBT couples who may already face additional social stigma and isolation due to their identities, managing these challenges becomes even more critical. This article will explore some strategies that LGBT couples can utilize during deployment cycles to sustain emotional connection and build resilience against stressors associated with separation.
Communication
Regular communication is crucial for maintaining emotional connection while apart. Couples should set aside dedicated times each day or week to communicate, whether it be through phone calls, text messages, video chats, letters, or other methods. It is important to prioritize quality over quantity; meaningful conversations are better than brief check-ins.
Couples may consider using online platforms such as Facebook Messenger or Snapchat to share daily updates and photos. These apps allow for real-time communication that mimics physical presence and provide a sense of closeness despite distance.
Honesty and Vulnerability
Couples should be honest about their feelings and needs throughout deployment. Open communication allows for mutual understanding and support, even when physically separated. This includes sharing both positive and negative emotions, such as loneliness, fear, anxiety, frustration, excitement, joy, or pride. Sharing vulnerabilities helps foster intimacy and trust, creating a deeper level of connection that can weather any storm.
Shared Activities
Participating in shared activities together, even if they are virtual, can help couples feel closer and maintain a sense of togetherness. This could include watching movies, playing games, cooking meals together, or reading the same book simultaneously.
Partners who enjoy working out can join group fitness classes or exercise routines remotely. By having similar experiences, couples can stay connected to one another's lives and maintain a sense of normalcy during separation.
Physical Connection
Physical touch and affection are crucial components of human relationships, but they can be especially difficult to achieve while apart. LGBT couples can explore creative ways to stay physically connected, such as sending care packages with sensual items like massage oils, scented candles, or body wash. Partners may also consider sending videos or photographs of themselves engaging in sexual acts or wearing lingerie. These actions demonstrate love and desire, which can boost feelings of closeness and intimacy.
Support Networks
Having a strong network of friends and family is essential for mental health and well-being. During deployment, it becomes even more important for couples to lean on their support systems. This includes reaching out to loved ones for emotional support and sharing struggles with them. Couples should identify reliable allies who understand their unique circumstances and provide comfort and encouragement when needed. Building social connections within the LGBT community is particularly beneficial for those facing isolation due to stigma or discrimination.
Sustaining an emotional connection during extended deployment cycles requires effort and intentionality from both partners. By utilizing effective communication strategies, being honest about feelings and needs, participating in shared activities, staying physically connected, and leveraging support networks, LGBT couples can strengthen their bonds and weather any storm together.
How do LGBT couples sustain emotional connection during extended deployment cycles?
Research has shown that one of the most important factors for sustaining emotional connection between partners is effective communication skills (Fletcher & Simpson, 2016). This means being able to express oneself clearly, actively listen to the partner's words and tone of voice, and avoid defensiveness when receiving negative feedback.