The ability for military personnel to maintain effective relationships with their loved ones during deployments is critical for both personal wellbeing and mission success.
The combination of deployment, combat-related trauma, and familial responsibilities can create unique challenges that require active management and communication strategies. These three stressors are intertwined in various ways, often requiring soldiers to juggle different priorities simultaneously.
Deployments can disrupt the daily routines and expectations of military families, causing stress and anxiety. Soldiers may struggle to balance physical and emotional needs while away from home, including maintaining healthy eating habits, exercise regimens, and social connections. This challenge is compounded when they experience combat trauma, which can lead to difficulties processing negative thoughts and feelings about themselves, others, or the world around them.
Family members may face financial strain or increased childcare responsibilities without reliable support systems.
To manage these stressors effectively, soldiers must communicate openly and regularly with their loved ones. They should share their experiences and concerns honestly and seek feedback and validation. It's also important to establish clear boundaries around what information can be shared and how much time can be dedicated to maintaining relationships.
Setting aside a specific day each week for video chats or letter writing can help ensure consistent communication.
Soldiers who have experienced combat trauma may benefit from seeking professional help through counseling or peer support groups. They may also need to reassure their partners that they are safe and present, even if physically absent. This can include sending photos, videos, or other tangible reminders of their presence.
Managing multiple concurrent stressors related to deployment, trauma, and family responsibilities requires intentionality and flexibility. By actively engaging with loved ones in meaningful ways and seeking support as needed, soldiers can build resilience and strengthen their relationships despite the challenges of military service.
How do soldiers maintain relational engagement while managing multiple concurrent stressors related to deployment, trauma, and family responsibilities?
The soldiers need to be aware of the importance of creating meaningful relationships with their families before they are deployed so that they can maintain them even when they are away from home for long periods. They should also make efforts to stay connected through regular communication by phone, email or video calls. Additionally, they should find ways to reconnect physically when possible like going on vacation together or having reunions after deployments.