The experience of military deployment is often difficult for couples who are apart from each other.
There are several strategies that can help them maintain their relationship during this time. Here are some effective strategies to support resilience in long-distance military relationships:
1. Staying Connected
One of the most important ways to support resilience in long-distance military relationships during deployments is to stay connected. This includes regular communication through phone calls, text messages, emails, video chats, social media, and letters. Couples should make an effort to keep in touch regularly and update each other on what's going on in their lives, even if they are unable to see each other in person. It is also essential to set aside time specifically for talking about their feelings, discussing problems, sharing hopes and dreams, and expressing love and affection.
2. Finding Support
Couples can find support through friends and family members. They can ask loved ones to send care packages or visit them when possible.
Many organizations offer resources such as counseling services or support groups for families of deployed service members. These programs provide opportunities for families to connect with others who understand their unique situation and can offer advice and emotional support.
3. Planning Ahead
Planning ahead can also be a useful strategy to support resilience in long-distance military relationships. Before the deployment begins, couples can create a plan for how they will communicate while separated.
They could agree to have weekly check-ins, schedule vacations together, or celebrate special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries. By having a clear understanding of what they will do while apart, couples can reduce stress and anxiety associated with uncertainty.
4. Setting Realistic Expectations
Setting realistic expectations can help couples navigate difficult situations more easily. Military life can involve unexpected changes and challenges that may disrupt plans. When this happens, couples need to adjust their expectations accordingly and work together to overcome obstacles. This involves being flexible, patient, understanding, and empathetic towards one another.
5. Practicing Self-Care
Self-care is an important part of supporting resilience in long-distance military relationships. Each partner should take time for themselves by engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation. This might include exercise, reading, writing, meditation, journaling, or hobbies. Couples should also make sure to get enough rest, eat healthy foods, and maintain good mental and physical health habits.
6. Maintaining Intimacy
Maintaining intimacy during deployments is crucial for supporting resilience in long-distance military relationships. This includes physical touch, such as holding hands or kissing, as well as emotional closeness through communication, vulnerability, and honesty. Couples can find ways to stay connected sexually even when physically apart by using technology like video chats or sexting. They can also try roleplaying or creating new sexual experiences that build anticipation and excitement for reunion.
There are several strategies that can support resilience in long-distance military relationships during deployments. By staying connected, finding support, planning ahead, setting realistic expectations, practicing self-care, and maintaining intimacy, couples can maintain a strong connection while apart. With patience, understanding, and effort, they can come out stronger on the other side.
What strategies support resilience in long-distance military relationships during deployments?
The military is a unique profession that comes with its fair share of challenges, including the stressors associated with deployments. Deployments require military personnel to be away from their families for extended periods, which can take a toll on both partners' mental health. Therefore, it is essential to develop effective coping mechanisms to help sustain relationships despite distance and separation.