How do partners sustain relational resilience when soldiers' ability to communicate feelings is impaired by trauma or stress?
The effects of combat stress can have devastating consequences for both soldiers and their families. Soldiers who experience traumatic events may suffer from PTSD, depression, anxiety, anger management issues, substance abuse problems, and relationship difficulties. These struggles often disrupt communication patterns within a couple's relationship because the soldier feels unable to open up about his/her emotions due to guilt or shame related to the event(s) that caused him/her pain.
Even if a partner cannot talk freely about how he/she feels, there are ways that partners can remain emotionally connected despite this barrier.
One way that couples maintain relational resilience when a soldier experiences post-traumatic stress disorder is through nonverbal cues such as hugging, holding hands, kissing, or touching in general. When soldiers are struggling to express themselves verbally, they may benefit from physical displays of affection, which help them feel safe and loved without having to explain why they need it.
If a soldier is feeling sad after witnessing something horrific during deployment, a supportive spouse might offer a reassuring hug or pat on the back rather than asking what happened. This allows the soldier to be understood without words, helping him/her feel supported without having to relive the trauma again.
Another method for maintaining relational resilience in times of crisis is to use active listening skills like reflective listening and paraphrasing. The partner should take an interest in what the other person has experienced by asking clarifying questions while providing positive feedback and affirmation for any feelings expressed. Active listening shows that you care deeply about your partner and want to understand their perspective more fully. It also gives both parties the chance to work together toward understanding each other better over time. Reflective listening involves repeating back key phrases heard during conversation in order to show that you are paying attention and validate your partner's experience. Paraphrasing means restating what was said using different words so that both partners clearly understand one another's perspectives.
Couples can stay connected emotionally even when communication breaks down by engaging in shared activities or rituals like going out together on weekends or watching movies at home. These activities provide opportunities for connection without requiring verbal disclosure of emotions since nonverbal cues such as body language still convey messages between partners.
Couples who engage in shared activities tend to have higher levels of satisfaction with their relationship because they spend quality time together outside the stressful environment created by combat stressors.
Sustaining relational resilience when soldiers' ability to communicate feelings is impaired by trauma or stress requires patience and effort from both partners involved. By utilizing physical displays of affection, active listening strategies, and shared activities, couples can maintain strong relationships despite these difficult circumstances.
How do partners sustain relational resilience when soldiers' ability to communicate feelings is impaired by trauma or stress?
Partners need to foster understanding, empathy, and support for their loved one who has experienced trauma or stress in order to maintain healthy relationships despite communication difficulties. This can be achieved through active listening, validating each other's experiences, and offering reassurance. It also involves respecting each other's boundaries and being open to compromise, which may involve making adjustments to daily routines and expectations.