Long-term deployment separations can take a significant toll on a soldier's mental health. Deployment-related stressors such as anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder have been well documented. Yet, there is limited research into how soldiers cope with prolonged periods away from their loved ones. This article will explore the ways that soldiers deal psychologically with being apart from their romantic partners for extended periods of time.
The military lifestyle presents many challenges, including frequent deployments lasting several months at a time. These deployments can be extremely taxing on both the individual soldier and their family unit. The separation from home and family during these deployments can cause feelings of isolation and loneliness, making it difficult for soldiers to maintain emotional connection with their partners. As a result, long-term separation can negatively impact relationships, leading to increased conflict, decreased intimacy, and potentially even divorce or breakup. Despite these challenges, many soldiers find ways to adapt psychologically and stay connected to their loved ones despite being separated physically.
One way that soldiers may adapt psychologically to long-term separation is by relying on technology to stay in touch with their partner. Communication via phone calls, video chats, emails, and social media allows them to feel more connected despite physical distance. This helps to mitigate some of the negative effects of separation, such as feeling lonely or disconnected.
Maintaining a routine of communication through regular check-ins can help prevent misunderstandings and miscommunications. Soldiers who are deployed often report feeling overwhelmed by the demands of their job, which can make it difficult to prioritize time for connecting with their loved ones. Technology provides an easy solution to this challenge by allowing them to connect quickly and easily without having to dedicate large amounts of time.
Another way soldiers cope with prolonged separations is by focusing on other aspects of life outside of their relationship. Activities like hobbies, sports, volunteering, or work can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment that replaces some of the absence caused by being away from their significant other. These activities also give soldiers something positive to look forward to when they return home, providing a sense of anticipation and excitement that can help alleviate feelings of loneliness.
Soldiers may turn to friends and family members for support during deployments, seeking out emotional connection and companionship. Building strong relationships within their community can create a network of support that eases the pain of separation and creates opportunities for growth and personal development.
Although the psychological impacts of long-term deployment separations can be significant, many soldiers find ways to adapt and stay connected to their romantic partners. By relying on technology, pursuing new interests, building friendships, and finding meaning in their work, soldiers can mitigate the negative effects of physical distance and maintain healthy relationships despite the challenges posed by frequent deployments.
How do soldiers adapt psychologically to long-term separation from intimate partners during multiple deployments?
Soldiers have been dealing with the challenge of being away from their intimate partners for extended periods due to frequent deployments since ancient times. The primary psychological adaptation has been relying on technology, such as emails, video calls, and letters, to stay connected while deployed (Dewa & Dela Cruz, 2018).