Soldiers who are deployed to faraway places for extended periods face unique challenges when it comes to maintaining their emotional well-being. One major challenge is staying connected with loved ones back home, which can be especially difficult during times of war or conflict. While modern technology has made communication easier than ever before, it still presents its own set of obstacles that soldiers must overcome. In addition to dealing with physical and mental health issues brought on by deployment, soldiers must also cope with loneliness, isolation, and anxiety about their loved ones while they are away. To ensure continued emotional support across deployments and separation, soldiers rely on various strategies such as letter writing, video calls, social media, counseling services, and shared experiences with fellow soldiers.
Letter Writing
One way soldiers maintain emotional support is through regular letter writing. Sending letters allows them to express themselves freely without worrying about interrupting someone else's conversation or being distracted by other people. It provides an opportunity to share intimate thoughts and feelings that may not come up in everyday interactions. Letters allow soldiers to feel more connected to their families even though they are physically apart. They can read and reread the letters multiple times throughout the day, holding onto them as a tangible reminder of loved ones at home.
Letter writing does require time and effort, which can be limited when faced with the demands of military life.
Some units restrict the frequency of mail call or censor incoming and outgoing correspondence, which can make letter writing less effective.
Video Calls
Video calling technology has become increasingly sophisticated over the years, making it possible for soldiers to see their loved ones in real-time from anywhere in the world. This can help alleviate some of the emotional stress associated with separation, allowing for more meaningful conversations and better connection than text messages or phone calls alone. Some units even provide designated areas where soldiers can use computers or tablets to connect with family members back home. While video calls can be very helpful, they also have their limitations. The soldier must schedule time to participate, and often needs to adjust to different time zones or schedules. There is no guarantee that the internet will be reliable during deployments, leading to missed connections or technical difficulties. And since these connections are usually one-on-one, they do not offer the same support system as group activities or shared experiences.
Social Media
Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram have revolutionized how people communicate across distances. Soldiers can share photos, videos, stories, and updates about daily life, creating an ongoing dialogue with friends and family. These interactions allow both parties to feel closer together despite being physically apart. In addition to maintaining contact with loved ones, social media provides a way for soldiers to build relationships within their unit through shared posts and comments.
There are downsides to using social media, such as privacy concerns and potential cyberbullying or trolling. It can also contribute to feelings of isolation if everyone else seems to be having fun at home while the soldier is struggling emotionally during deployment.
Counseling Services
Soldiers who need extra support can access counseling services either in person or online. Many military bases offer confidential mental health services for free or at low cost, which can help soldiers process emotions related to deployment and separation. Professional counselors can provide advice, guidance, and resources for dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, and other common challenges. Some soldiers may prefer to seek out religious or spiritual counseling, while others may find solace in group therapy sessions with fellow service members. While counseling can be effective, some soldiers may avoid seeking it due to stigma around mental health issues or fear that doing so will affect their career prospects.
How do soldiers maintain emotional support across deployments and separation?
Soldiers typically rely on various coping strategies to maintain emotional support during deployment and separation periods from their loved ones. They may engage in activities such as writing letters, sending emails, making phone calls, and keeping in touch with family members through social media. Additionally, they may seek out emotional support from other military personnel who have experienced similar situations.