Soldiers deployed abroad may face extreme conditions, including intense combat and prolonged separation from loved ones. These experiences can change their perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors in various ways. Upon return, they may become distant, angry, fearful, anxious, or depressed; some even experience posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. This is especially true if they were not prepared for the trauma before leaving home. Partners must adapt to these changes to maintain healthy relationships.
Emotional Behaviors Formed during Deployment
Deployments may cause soldiers to form new emotional habits that could significantly affect their relationships with family and friends.
They may be more sensitive to sounds or smells reminiscent of warfare. They may also have difficulty trusting others, including partners. Some may develop anger management issues or feel isolated. Others may display hypervigilance, which involves being excessively alert to potential threats. All these behavioral changes require supportive attention and empathetic communication.
Adaptation
Partners should be patient, understanding, and compassionate when dealing with returning soldiers who exhibit new emotional behaviors formed during deployment. They need time to adjust to civilian life after living in a hostile environment for months or years. Partners should encourage them to seek professional help if necessary. Open communication is essential. It allows both parties to share thoughts and feelings without judgment or resentment. By listening actively and respectfully, partners can show their unwavering support for their spouse's well-being.
Partners should create a safe space where their partner feels comfortable expressing themselves without fear of criticism or rejection. Activities such as yoga, meditation, therapy, or journaling can help reduce stress levels and improve mental health.
Partners should not overwhelm the returning soldier with questions about their experiences abroad. Instead, let them bring up topics on their own terms, and ask follow-up questions only when needed.
How do partners adapt to returning soldiers who display new emotional behaviors formed during deployment?
Returning soldiers may display various emotional behaviors that can be challenging for their partners to adjust to. These include posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, anger issues, sleep problems, substance abuse, and difficulty with intimacy. Partners must understand the impact of these behaviors on their relationship and learn effective coping strategies to support their loved ones' wellbeing. They should also be open to seeking professional help if needed.