Relational Resilience Post Deployment
A study by the National Institute for Healthcare Research found that relational resilience is positively correlated with overall mental health outcomes post deployment. This finding indicates that individuals who are able to maintain positive relationships despite the challenges of deployment may experience improved mental health compared to those who struggle to form and sustain connections. In this article, we will explore how relational resilience can contribute to better mental health outcomes after returning from deployment and discuss strategies for cultivating resilient relationships.
What is Relational Resilience?
Relational resilience is the ability to maintain strong and supportive relationships while facing challenges such as separation due to military service. It involves being open to new experiences, adapting to changing circumstances, communicating effectively, and fostering trust between partners. Studies have shown that individuals with high levels of relational resilience tend to have lower rates of depression, anxiety, and other negative emotional states than those without it.
Why is Relational Resilience Important?
Studies suggest that relational resilience plays a significant role in promoting overall well-being among veterans and their families. When deployed personnel return home, they face unique challenges related to readjustment, such as reconnecting with loved ones and adjusting to civilian life. Maintaining strong relationships during this time can provide social support and help alleviate stressors associated with deployment.
Research suggests that individuals with higher levels of relational resilience tend to be more satisfied with their relationships and less likely to experience conflict.
How Does Relational Resilience Impact Mental Health Outcomes Post Deployment?
A study published in the Journal of Traumatic Stress found that relational resilience was positively correlated with post-deployment mental health outcomes among married veterans. Specifically, those with higher levels of relational resilience were less likely to report symptoms of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after returning from deployment. The authors hypothesize that these positive relationships may act as a buffer against negative psychological effects of deployment, providing a sense of security and stability that helps individuals cope with trauma and stress.
Strategies for Cultivating Relational Resilience
There are several strategies that deployed individuals and their partners can use to cultivate relational resilience:
1. Set Realistic Expectations - Setting realistic expectations about what each partner can contribute to the relationship is crucial for maintaining strong connections. This means acknowledging differences in communication styles, schedules, and priorities and being willing to compromise when necessary.
2. Practice Effective Communication - Open and honest communication is essential for building trust and understanding between partners. This involves active listening, empathy, and expressing feelings clearly without blame or judgment.
3. Prioritize Quality Time Together - Spending quality time together is important for maintaining intimacy and connection despite separation due to deployment. This can include weekly date nights, regular check-ins via phone or video chat, and shared activities such as reading or watching movies.
4. Seek Professional Help If Needed - If difficulties arise in the relationship, seeking professional help can be beneficial. A therapist or counselor can provide support and guidance in managing conflict, improving communication, and navigating the challenges associated with military life.
Relational resilience has been shown to correlate positively with overall mental health outcomes post-deployment. By implementing strategies for cultivating relational resilience, veterans and their families can improve their relationships and promote better mental health outcomes during this challenging time. With the right supports and resources, returning from deployment can be a positive experience for all involved.
How does relational resilience correlate with overall mental health outcomes post-deployment?
Relational resilience is the ability of an individual to adapt to stressful situations, maintain close relationships despite adversity, communicate effectively with others, and cope with interpersonal conflicts in a constructive way (Chang et al. , 2016). It has been shown that soldiers who demonstrate high levels of relational resilience experience better mental health outcomes post-deployment compared to those who have lower levels of relational resilience (Hooper et al.