When military personnel are deployed away from home for extended periods of time, they may experience significant changes in their relational identities. Habitual patterns of intimacy can be upended, leaving partners feeling isolated, confused, and unsure of how to navigate their new reality. This article will explore strategies for individuals to rebuild their relational identity during deployment and beyond.
It is important to recognize that every relationship is unique and requires its own approach to rebuilding after deployment. Partners must acknowledge and validate their emotions and experiences during this difficult time. It is also critical to communicate openly and honestly about what is happening within the relationship. Talking about fears, anxieties, and hopes for the future can help build trust and understanding between partners.
It can be helpful to establish clear boundaries around communication while one partner is deployed. This means setting aside specific times each day or week to talk with one another via phone or video chat, rather than trying to maintain constant connection throughout the day. It's also important to be mindful of not oversharing personal details online, as these could compromise security or privacy.
Couples should focus on building strong relationships outside of their immediate family unit. Attending social events together or connecting with friends can provide much-needed support and help maintain a sense of normalcy. Partners who have children should prioritize spending quality time together as a family and find ways to connect emotionally even when physically apart.
Fourth, couples should work towards establishing a sense of continuity in their intimate life. This may involve setting goals or milestones to look forward to, such as celebrating anniversaries or special occasions. Intimacy can be maintained through letters, photos, videos, and other creative forms of expression. Regular sex is not always feasible but can be a way to maintain physical closeness and express love for one another.
Partners should consider seeking professional support if needed. A therapist or counselor can provide guidance on navigating difficult emotions and address any underlying issues that may be affecting the relationship. Family members should also seek out resources like support groups or mental health services to ensure they are supported during this challenging time.
Rebuilding relational identity after deployment requires patience, communication, and intentional effort from both parties involved. By acknowledging the disruption caused by deployment, setting boundaries, engaging in meaningful activities, preserving intimacy, and seeking help when necessary, individuals can emerge stronger and more connected than ever before.
How do individuals rebuild relational identity when deployment disrupts habitual intimacy patterns?
When deployments interrupt habits of intimate relationship, rebuilding one's relational identity can involve identifying and challenging core beliefs about oneself and others that are often deeply ingrained due to years of repeated behavioral reinforcement. This requires introspection and self-reflection to identify these beliefs, followed by attempts at changing them through deliberately practicing alternative ways of interacting with significant people in one's life.