Service members who return from high-intensity deployments often experience difficulties adjusting to civilian life. This can affect their interpersonal relationships, including those with family members and loved ones. Relationships that were once stable may become unstable due to the stressors experienced during deployment. In this article, I will discuss how service members can build a sense of relational safety after returning home.
One way for service members to rebuild relational safety is to communicate openly and honestly with their partners about their experiences during deployment. This means sharing both positive and negative experiences without holding back. Service members should also be willing to listen to their partner's perspective and understand their feelings. By communicating effectively, they can create an environment where trust and honesty are valued.
Another way to rebuild relational safety is through physical touch. Physical intimacy is an important part of any relationship, but it may have been limited or absent during deployment. It is important for service members to make time for intimate moments with their partner when possible. This can include hugging, cuddling, or other forms of affection. It is also important to express gratitude and appreciation for each other verbally.
Service members need to allow themselves time to process the trauma of deployment before engaging in intimate relationships. They must first heal from the emotional wounds of combat before entering into new relationships. This can take time, so patience and understanding are essential for both parties involved.
Service members should seek professional help if needed. Trauma-informed therapy can provide support and guidance as they navigate the challenges of adjusting to civilian life. Therapists can help them identify triggers that cause distress, teach coping skills, and improve communication skills.
Building a sense of relational safety after deployment requires effort and dedication.
By practicing effective communication, prioritizing intimacy, processing trauma, and seeking professional help, service members can build strong and lasting relationships.
How do service members rebuild a sense of relational safety after returning from high-intensity deployment environments?
After returning from high-intensity deployment, many service members struggle with maintaining healthy relationships due to changes in their beliefs about safety, trust, intimacy, and communication. They may have difficulty opening up emotionally or sharing vulnerabilities, which can create tension and distance within their relationships. To rebuild a sense of relational safety, it is important for both individuals to communicate openly and honestly about their needs, expectations, and boundaries.