How to Sustain Emotional Closeness When Communication Is Limited
Communication between partners can be difficult during deployments because it can be limited, delayed, or highly regulated. This can make sustaining emotional closeness challenging. Here are some strategies that can help:
Send Regular Letters and Emails
Sending regular letters and emails can help partners stay connected despite distance. This helps them feel less alone and reminds them of their relationship. Include details about your daily life and thoughts. Don't forget to say "I love you" often!
Use Technology To Your Advantage
Skype calls, video chats, and text messages can help couples maintain emotional closeness when communication is limited. Schedule regular check-ins and keep each other updated on what's going on in your lives. Be honest about how you're feeling and ask for support if needed.
Keep Track Of Special Events
Remember important events like birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and milestones. Celebrate together even though you may be apart physically. Send cards, gifts, and personalized messages to show you care. Plan special activities for when you reunite, such as a romantic dinner or weekend getaway.
Practice Self-Care And Patience
Deployments can be stressful for both partners. Make sure to take care of yourself emotionally and physically by eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep. Remember that relationships take work even without deployment issues - practice patience and understanding during this time.
Stay Positive And Optimistic
Keep the faith that everything will work out and believe in the strength of your bond. Focus on the positive aspects of your relationship instead of dwelling on challenges. Trust that your partner will return home safe and sound.
Know That It Takes Time
Communication limitations don't happen overnight - it takes time to adjust to new ways of interacting. Be patient with yourself and your partner, knowing that things will get better with time. Encourage openness and honesty about feelings and needs. With effort, emotional closeness can still thrive despite deployments.
How do partners sustain emotional closeness when communication during deployment is limited, delayed, or highly regulated?
Deployment poses several challenges for couples, including maintaining emotional closeness despite physical distance. One of the primary ways that partners can sustain emotional closeness during deployment is by scheduling regular check-ins with each other through technology such as video calls, text messages, and phone calls. These check-ins allow couples to stay connected emotionally and keep up-to-date on each other's lives, even if they are apart physically.