What strategies help LGBT couples maintain relational intimacy while managing repeated deployments and operational separation?
Maintaining relational intimacy between partners can be challenging for anyone, but it is especially difficult when one or both partners are members of the military who must frequently separate due to deployments or operations. This challenge is compounded for LGBT couples, whose relationships may already face additional hurdles due to societal stigma and discrimination. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies that can help LGBT couples maintain relational intimacy during times of operational separation.
One strategy is to stay connected through technology. Couples can communicate regularly via phone calls, text messages, video chats, social media, and email. They can also share photos, videos, and other updates about their daily lives. This helps to keep the relationship fresh and alive even when physical contact is limited. It's important to establish regular communication schedules so that neither partner feels neglected or ignored.
Another strategy is to plan ahead for periods of absence. Couples should discuss expectations and needs before deployments or operations begin, including how often they will communicate and what forms of communication will be used. They should also make plans for visits and vacations together when possible, as well as shared hobbies and activities that they can continue despite geographical distance.
Couples can also build emotional resilience by practicing self-care and stress management techniques. This includes taking time to relax, exercise, eat healthy meals, spend time with friends and family, and engage in activities that bring joy and fulfillment. It's also helpful to seek support from trusted individuals, such as therapists, counselors, or religious leaders.
It's essential for partners to prioritize quality time together whenever possible. When reunited after a period of absence, couples should take the time to reconnect emotionally and physically. This may involve activities such as date nights, romantic getaways, or simply spending time together at home. Regularly expressing gratitude and appreciation for each other can help strengthen the bond between partners and reinforce their commitment to one another.
Maintaining relational intimacy during operational separation requires effort and creativity, but it is possible with the right strategies and mindset. LGBT couples who invest in their relationship even when apart are more likely to emerge stronger and more committed than ever before.
What strategies help LGBT couples maintain relational intimacy while managing repeated deployments and operational separation?
Research suggests that successful military partnerships require regular communication and shared responsibility for problem-solving (Davis & Matsick, 2014). To maintain relational intimacy, LGBT couples may benefit from establishing routines such as frequent video calls, letters or emails during deployment periods, and planning special dates for reunion upon return (Foster et al. , 2017).