The effects of military service on couples can be profound. Long periods apart, stressful deployments, and constant worry about safety and security can all take their toll on a relationship. Military couples may find themselves struggling to reconnect when they return home, and feelings of distrust and disconnection can become all too common.
There are psychological interventions that can help restore trust and intimacy in these relationships.
One such intervention is couples therapy. This type of therapy helps couples identify and address issues within their relationship, and learn new communication and conflict resolution skills. It can also provide a safe space for both partners to express their fears, worries, and concerns without judgment or criticism. Couples therapy has been shown to be particularly effective in restoring trust and intimacy after military service.
Another approach is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT helps individuals identify negative thought patterns and behaviors that may be contributing to their feelings of distrust or disconnection. By challenging these thoughts and changing behaviors, individuals can begin to feel more confident and secure in their relationships. CBT has also been found to be effective in helping couples cope with the stressors of military life, such as financial struggles and deployment-related anxiety.
Mindfulness meditation can be an important tool for restoring trust and intimacy in military couples. Mindfulness involves focusing one's attention on the present moment and accepting one's thoughts and emotions without judgment. This practice can help reduce anxiety and stress, and improve overall well-being. It can also increase empathy and compassion between partners, leading to greater connection and closeness.
There are several evidence-based approaches that can help military couples reconnect and build trust after service. These include couples therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness meditation. With commitment and effort, military couples can overcome the challenges of military service and create strong, healthy relationships.
What psychological interventions are effective in restoring trust and intimacy in military couples?
Restoring trust and intimacy in military couples can be achieved through various psychological interventions, including communication skills training, problem-solving strategies, behavioral techniques, and empathic listening. In a 2019 study by Shumway et al. , it was found that relationship therapy with active military members and their partners helped improve their marital satisfaction and relationship functioning.