Many couples experience significant challenges when one partner is deployed for an extended period of time due to military service. These difficulties can include financial stressors that may impact their relationship in various ways. This article will explore how financial stresses related to long deployments influence a couple's sense of security and closeness, including the potential negative effects on their physical and emotional wellbeing, communication, and decision-making abilities.
Financial Stress Can Impact Couples' Sense of Security
When a partner is deployed for a prolonged period, there are often changes to the household finances that can create anxiety and tension between partners. One spouse may need to manage all aspects of the family budget alone, which can be especially difficult if they were not previously responsible for this task. This situation can lead to feelings of uncertainty, fear, and worry about how bills will get paid and expenses met during their absence. It may also result in increased debt or difficulty paying off existing loans or credit cards. In addition, unexpected expenses such as car repairs, medical bills, or emergencies could arise while the other partner is away, further exacerbating financial strain.
Physical and Emotional Wellbeing Is Impacted
The psychological and emotional burden caused by financial worries can take its toll on both parties involved. The person left behind may feel overwhelmed by the additional responsibilities and stress associated with managing finances without support from their partner. They may also become more anxious or depressed due to feeling alone and unsupported. On the other hand, those who have been deployed often report higher levels of stress and worry regarding their family's welfare back home. These concerns can manifest physically through symptoms such as insomnia, fatigue, headaches, or stomach problems. Financial pressures placed upon military families have been linked to a decrease in marital satisfaction and quality of life.
Communication and Decision-Making Ability Are Affected
Financial difficulties can cause couples to argue more frequently or avoid discussing important topics altogether. This lack of communication can harm their ability to make decisions together effectively when needed.
Making major purchases like buying a house or planning for retirement becomes more complicated if one partner is not present to provide input or opinions.
Disagreements about how best to handle money matters during deployment could lead to resentment or distrust between partners once reunited again.
Closeness May Be Compromised Due To Financial Stressors
Long deployments can create barriers that make it challenging for couples to maintain closeness even after reuniting following an extended absence. Couples who face financial hardships due to separation may find themselves feeling disconnected emotionally and struggling to connect emotionally despite being physically present together again. The pressure of having extra bills, debts, or loans weighing heavily on them can prevent couples from enjoying each other's company fully and engaging in activities that strengthen their bond. In addition, the strain of handling money issues alone can leave both partners feeling drained and exhausted, leading to less intimacy than before deployment began.
Financial stress related to long deployments significantly impacts couples' sense of security, physical and emotional wellbeing, communication, decision-making abilities, and closeness. It's crucial for those facing this challenge to seek support from trusted friends or family members and consider seeking professional help if necessary. With proper guidance and resources, military families can weather the storm of these challenges and remain strong as they navigate life together while apart.
How do financial stresses related to long deployments influence a couple's sense of security and closeness?
Deployed service members are often exposed to stressful situations that may negatively impact their mental health and well-being. The absence from home can cause feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression, which can have a ripple effect on relationships. Couples who experience deployment-related financial stress may feel less secure and more distant due to the added pressure of managing finances alone while separated.