The concept of partners co-creating adaptive relational practices is an important one for individuals who have experienced trauma-related emotional fluctuations. This process involves both partners working together to develop strategies that can help them better manage their emotions during moments of distress or heightened stress. These strategies may include communication techniques such as active listening, validation, and reframing, problem-solving skills like brainstorming solutions to problems, and relaxation exercises like deep breathing or mindfulness meditation. By engaging in these activities, partners can learn how to better understand each other's needs and find ways to meet those needs while still maintaining healthy boundaries.
One example of this type of practice would be when a partner experiences anger or irritability due to flashbacks from a previous traumatic event. The other partner could offer empathetic support and validate their feelings, which would allow the individual experiencing flashbacks to express themselves without fear of judgment or criticism. In addition, the non-flashbacked partner could suggest alternative coping mechanisms, such as taking a walk outside or doing some gentle stretching, which could help reduce tension and provide space for both partners to process their emotions. Another way partners might accommodate veterans' trauma-related emotional fluctuations is by establishing routines for times when one or both partners feel overwhelmed.
A routine could involve going out for dinner at the same time every week or having regular date nights where they focus on quality time together instead of talking about any current struggles.
Co-creating adaptive relational practices helps build trust between partners and fosters a sense of safety within relationships that has been damaged by past trauma. It allows individuals who have experienced trauma to feel seen, heard, and understood while also giving them the tools necessary to manage their emotions more effectively. This type of collaboration can lead to improved communication, increased intimacy, and enhanced overall wellbeing for all parties involved.
In what ways do partners co-create adaptive relational practices to accommodate veterans' trauma-related emotional fluctuations?
Research shows that partners play an important role in supporting their military veteran partners who have experienced trauma during their service. One way in which partners can help is by creating adaptive relational practices that accommodate the trauma-related emotional fluctuations of their veteran partner (Gerber et al. , 2017). These practices may include open communication, active listening, empathy, and understanding of the veteran's unique needs.