Soldiers often experience significant changes in their mental health after deployment due to exposure to traumatic events. These changes can affect their behavior both at home and within their romantic relationships. Some common issues that arise include difficulty sleeping, feeling isolated from loved ones, irritability, anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. In addition to these symptoms, many veterans also exhibit signs of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can cause them to relive the trauma they experienced during deployment through flashbacks, nightmares, and avoidance behaviors. As a result of these issues, soldiers may behave unpredictably, withdrawing from their partners one moment and then acting out aggressively the next. This emotional instability can be challenging for partners to navigate, leading to feelings of confusion and resentment.
There are strategies that partners can employ to support their soldier throughout this difficult time.
One way that partners can provide emotional support is by actively listening to their soldier's needs and concerns. It can be tempting to try to fix the problem or offer advice, but it is essential to let the soldier express themselves fully without interruption or judgment. Partners should focus on understanding their partner's perspective and empathizing with their experiences. They should ask open-ended questions and avoid making assumptions about what their soldier is going through. This approach allows the soldier to feel heard and validated, which can help to alleviate some of the isolation they may be experiencing.
Another strategy is to engage in self-care activities that promote mental health and wellness. Partners can take up hobbies such as yoga, meditation, or exercise that help reduce stress and improve mood. They can also practice mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation. These activities can serve as an escape from the chaos of daily life and allow both partners to find peace within themselves.
Seeking professional help when needed is crucial, as it can provide additional tools and resources for managing stress and coping with trauma.
Partners should communicate clearly and regularly with their soldiers about how they are feeling and any issues that arise. This open communication can prevent misunderstandings and miscommunications from occurring and ensure that both parties understand each other better. It is also critical to establish clear boundaries and expectations around behavior during this time.
If a soldier has difficulty sleeping at night due to PTSD symptoms, their partner may need to adjust their routine accordingly by allowing more flexibility in bedtime or creating a calming atmosphere before bedtime.
It is essential to remember that every relationship and situation is unique, so what works for one couple may not work for another. The most important thing is to keep trying different strategies until something works for both partners.
Supporting a soldier through post-deployment challenges requires patience, understanding, and empathy. By actively listening to their needs, engaging in self-care activities, and communicating effectively, partners can create a supportive environment that helps veterans feel understood and loved. While it may be difficult to navigate these changes, doing so will ultimately strengthen the relationship and promote long-term mental health and wellbeing for both partners.
How do partners sustain emotional support when soldiers' post-deployment behavior alternates between withdrawal and hyper-vigilance?
Sustaining emotional support for returning soldiers can be challenging as their behaviors may fluctuate between withdrawal and hyper-vigilance. Partners should strive to create an environment where they feel safe to share their feelings and experiences, which can help them process their emotions and build resilience. This requires patience, understanding, empathy, and respect.