Partners can be frustrated if their significant others become distant or unavailable while recovering from military trauma.
Understanding why this occurs and learning how to cope will help both people stay connected.
The following steps may assist partners in maintaining connection with their loved ones during times of trauma:
1. Seek professional support. Professional mental health care providers can provide insights into the psychological effects of PTSD and strategies for coping. They can also give guidance regarding how to deal with challenges that arise when someone is experiencing symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, avoidance, depression, anxiety, irritability, sleep difficulties, anger outbursts, or substance abuse.
2. Be patient and empathetic. Trauma recovery processes are often lengthy, so it's important for partners to recognize that their loved one may need time and space to heal. Respecting boundaries helps build trust and mutual respect. Partners should understand that there may be moments of emotional distance and inconsistency due to processing memories and working through feelings. It's crucial to validate these experiences without judgment.
3. Communicate openly. Clear communication between partners is essential for navigating difficult topics like past experiences and current struggles. If a partner feels unable to talk about them, they should find ways to express themselves without putting pressure on their loved one. This might include writing letters, sharing artwork, or creating shared activities.
4. Acknowledge progress. Maintaining connection doesn't mean ignoring setbacks - instead, acknowledge the effort made towards improvement and encourage continued growth. Recognizing small victories builds confidence and motivation in both parties.
5. Practice self-care. Taking care of oneself allows partners to better support their loved ones during this time. Activities like exercise, meditation, reading, journaling, or hobbies can help reduce stress levels and provide healthy distractions from trauma triggers. Regular check-ins with friends, family members, and counselors can also offer needed support and understanding.
How do partners maintain connection when the soldier's emotional availability is inconsistent due to trauma recovery processes?
Due to the nature of their job, soldiers are prone to traumatic experiences that affect them emotionally and psychologically. This can lead to mental disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and insomnia among others.