Maintaining Emotional Engagement During Post-Deployment Stress
When military personnel return home after deployment, they often experience a range of emotions that can be difficult to navigate. This is especially true for couples who are trying to reconnect and maintain a healthy relationship. It's important for partners to understand how their soldier's mental state may change during this time and work together to support each other through it. Here are some tips for maintaining patience and resilience when your partner's post-deployment engagement fluctuates.
1. Communicate Openly - One of the most effective ways to maintain emotional engagement during this time is to communicate openly about what you're both feeling. Talk about what's going on in your life and how you're feeling, and encourage your partner to do the same. This will help you better understand where they're coming from emotionally and make it easier to connect.
2. Be Patient - Remember that your partner is still adjusting to civilian life after being away for an extended period of time. They may need more time than usual to process things and express themselves, so give them space and don't push too hard. Be patient with them as they work through their feelings and try not to take anything personally.
3. Offer Support - Show your support by listening actively, validating their experiences, and offering words of encouragement. Help your partner find resources or therapy if needed, and let them know you're there for them no matter what.
4. Keep Yourself Healthy - Take care of yourself physically and mentally during this time. Eat well, get plenty of rest, and exercise regularly to reduce stress and improve mood. Make sure you have a support system outside of your relationship to turn to when necessary.
5. Seek Professional Help - If either of you are struggling with mental health issues such as depression or PTSD, seek professional help from a licensed counselor or therapist. This can be especially helpful in navigating post-deployment challenges together.
By working together and communicating openly, couples can maintain patience and resilience even when emotional engagement fluctuates following deployment. With understanding and compassion, you can create a strong foundation for a lasting and fulfilling relationship despite the difficulties that come with military service.
How do partners maintain patience and resilience when soldiers' post-deployment emotional engagement fluctuates?
Psychologists have found that one of the most important skills for managing stress is patience. When a partner's loved ones are going through difficult times, they may feel powerless to help them and experience frustration, anger, and sadness. Resilience refers to a person's ability to bounce back from hardship and adversity.