When soldiers are deployed to serve their country, they may experience significant stress due to the separation from their family and friends. Deployment can be challenging for both the soldier and their loved ones left behind, especially if there is limited communication between them. Emotional dependency can develop when people depend too much on each other emotionally and psychologically, which can lead to negative consequences such as codependency, low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. This article will explore what emotional dependency during deployments means, how it affects both parties involved, why it happens, how it can be avoided, and how to deal with its consequences.
What Is Emotional Dependency?
Emotional dependency is an unhealthy relationship dynamic that occurs when one person becomes dependent on another emotionally. In this type of relationship, one person relies heavily on the other for emotional support, validation, or comfort, often to the point where they feel lost without the other person's presence. Emotional dependencies can form in many different relationships, including romantic, platonic, parental, and professional ones. When it comes to deployment, emotional dependency can occur when a spouse or partner feels insecure about being separated from their loved one, causing them to become clingy or needy during their absence.
Emotional dependencies can form when two individuals have a close relationship before deployment but then find themselves struggling to communicate while apart. These types of situations can create a cycle of anxiety and insecurity, making it difficult for either party to function properly.
Why Do Emotional Dependencies Occur During Deployments With Limited Communication?
There are several reasons why emotional dependencies can develop during deployments with limited communication:
1. Lack of Social Support - The soldier may not receive enough social support from family and friends back home because they cannot see each other as frequently.
2. Uncertainty - The soldier's future is uncertain, creating feelings of anxiety and stress.
3. Feelings Of Rejection - The soldier may feel rejected if their partner does not want to talk to them as much as they would like due to limited communication options.
4. Disconnection - The lack of physical connection between partners causes disconnection emotionally.
5. Difficulty Expressing Emotions - Soldiers may find it challenging to express their feelings remotely, leading to misunderstandings that can lead to resentment and frustration.
6. Separation Anxiety - Soldiers may experience separation anxiety that makes them feel more vulnerable and dependent on their partner's love and attention.
7. Fear Of Abandonment - Soldiers may fear being abandoned by their partner when they return home if the relationship has weakened due to the distance.
8. Distorted Perception Of Love And Attachment - Soldiers may have difficulty distinguishing between true love and dependency, which leads to unhealthy attachments.
9. Changes In Routine - Deployment often involves changes in routine and lifestyle, causing emotional turmoil for both parties involved.
Avoiding Emotional Dependency During Deployments With Limited Communication
Here are some ways to avoid emotional dependencies during deployments with limited communication:
1. Stay Busy - Keep yourself busy with activities or hobbies that help you cope with the separation. This will prevent boredom and keep your mind occupied while giving you something productive to do.
2. Connect Regularly - Schedule regular check-ins with your loved one to stay connected and maintain a strong bond. Use video calls, email, social media, or letters to communicate regularly.
3. Set Expectations - Discuss expectations before deployment so there is no confusion about what each person needs from the other. This includes how much contact should be expected and how long it takes to respond.
4. Develop Coping Skills - Learn healthy coping skills such as meditation, exercise, or journaling that can help reduce stress and manage anxiety.
5. Seek Professional Help - If you struggle with emotional dependency, seek professional help from a therapist who can provide guidance and support.
6. Practice Self-Care - Take care of yourself physically and emotionally by getting enough rest, eating well, and practicing self-care rituals like yoga or massages.
Dealing With The Consequences Of Emotional Dependencies
If you find yourself struggling with emotional dependence after your partner's return home, here are some steps to take:
1. Talk To Your Partner - Openly discuss your feelings with your partner and work together on resolving any issues that have arisen due to the distance.
2. Get Support - Reach out to friends, family members, or a counselor for support and advice on dealing with these challenges.
3. Avoid Isolation - Stay socially active and engage in activities outside of the relationship to prevent isolation and loneliness.
4. Work On Self-Esteem - Build confidence by focusing on your strengths and accomplishments, not just your weaknesses.
5. Set Boundaries - Establish boundaries around communication and intimacy to avoid becoming too dependent on each other.
Emotional dependencies during deployments can negatively affect both parties involved and should be avoided when possible.
If they do occur, address them openly and honestly to preserve healthy relationships. By staying busy, connecting regularly, setting expectations, developing coping skills, seeking professional help, talking to your partner, getting support, building self-esteem, and setting boundaries, individuals can overcome this challenge and maintain healthy relationships.
What are the risks of emotional dependency during deployments with limited communication?
During deployments when soldiers spend long periods away from their loved ones, feelings of loneliness and isolation can lead to emotional dependency on others. This dependency can be dangerous if it causes one to become overly reliant on another for emotional support and validation, leading to codependency and unhealthy relationships. Dependency can also increase stress levels and anxiety which could negatively impact performance and health.