Soldiers returning from deployment often experience difficulties establishing relational trust and emotional safety with their partners, children, friends, and family members due to changes in their behavior and outlook caused by traumatic events during deployment. These disruptions can be temporary or last for years.
There are several ways that they can work to restore relational trust and emotional safety through communication, therapy, self-care practices, and rebuilding connections.
Communication
Communicating honestly about their experiences, feelings, and needs is crucial for soldiers to rebuild relational trust and emotional safety with those around them. This means sharing both positive and negative aspects of deployment, acknowledging mistakes, expressing remorse, apologizing for misunderstandings, and actively listening to others' perspectives. Soldiers should also avoid making assumptions and try to understand the other person's perspective without judgement.
Therapy
Seeking professional help can also aid in the reestablishment of relational trust and emotional safety. Therapists provide an objective third party who can assist in understanding the psychological impact of deployment and developing strategies for improving relationships. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based treatments have been shown to be effective in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and other common mental health issues related to deployment.
Self-Care Practices
Practicing self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, journaling, and connecting with loved ones can help soldiers cope with deployment-related stress and improve their mood and outlook on life. This can make it easier to build and maintain relational trust and emotional safety by reducing tension and increasing emotional availability.
Engaging in healthy coping mechanisms rather than unhealthy habits like substance abuse or isolation can promote better communication and bonding with others.
Rebuilding Connections
Soldiers returning from deployment should take time to reconnect with family and friends and participate in social events that allow them to share experiences and develop new bonds. This could include joining a support group, going out with old friends, volunteering, or attending community events together. Rekindling past hobbies, interests, and shared passions can also strengthen existing relationships and create new ones.
While deployment-related disruptions can disrupt relational trust and emotional safety, there are several steps that soldiers can take to restore these vital aspects of interpersonal connections. Communication, professional help, self-care practices, and rebuilding connections all play crucial roles in the process. With patience, effort, and understanding from both sides, soldiers can overcome these challenges and strengthen their relationships for years to come.
How do soldiers reconstruct relational trust and emotional safety after deployment-related disruptions?
Soldiers can reconstruct relational trust and emotional safety after deployment-related disruptions by engaging in various activities that foster social support, empathy, and understanding among their family members and friends. These include communication, active listening, spending quality time together, and participating in shared interests. Additionally, seeking professional help from mental health professionals may be necessary for some individuals who have experienced trauma during deployment and need assistance with managing their emotions and coping strategies.