The term "deployment" refers to a temporary transfer of military personnel from one location to another, usually for an extended period. It is common practice for service members to be away from home for several months or even years, which can put strain on their relationships with family and friends. In addition to the emotional distance created by physical separation, deployments often involve increased stress and anxiety due to fear of injury or death. This can lead to negative effects on mental health such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse, and marital problems.
Many couples find that engaging in sexual activity while apart can serve as a relational coping strategy during deployment.
One way to maintain intimacy is through sexual care packages, which are packages sent to soldiers that include personal items like lingerie, sex toys, or pornography. These packages can help create a sense of closeness between partners even when they are physically distant. Another option is phone sex, where couples engage in erotic activities over the phone. This can be done through text messages, voice calls, or video chat software. It's important to remember that phone sex requires open communication and trust between partners, so it may take some time to develop comfort in this area.
Many people use virtual reality technology to simulate a sexual encounter with their partner, allowing them to feel more connected despite being miles apart.
For those who wish to avoid technological solutions, there are still ways to engage in sexual care without technology. Some couples choose to write letters containing explicit descriptions of sexual fantasies or desires, while others exchange photos of themselves in revealing outfits. There are also books and videos available for couples who want to explore new sexual positions or techniques together from afar. These materials can be used to spice up long-distance relationships or simply keep the passion alive while separated.
How can sexual care be utilized as a relational coping strategy during deployment?
Sexual intimacy may be used as a way of alleviating stress for some military couples who are facing extended separation due to deployment. Research has shown that engaging in regular sexual activity with their partners before and/or after deployment can help soldiers cope with feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression associated with being apart from their loved ones.