Soldiers are highly trained individuals who have to face various challenges while serving their country. One of these challenges is relational strain that can result from the constant separation from loved ones, exposure to traumatic events, and adjustment to new environments. This article discusses how soldiers cope with this type of strain and what strategies they employ to maintain healthy relationships.
Loneliness due to Partner Absence
When soldiers are away from home for long periods, they may experience loneliness and miss their partners. To deal with this situation, they often use technology to stay connected through calls, video chats, emails, and text messages. They also express their love and affection to keep their partner's spirits up until they meet again. Soldiers understand that communication is essential for maintaining a relationship, so they make an effort to remain in touch as much as possible.
Some soldiers create routines to help them feel closer to their partners despite being apart.
They might read bedtime stories together or cook dinner for one another online. These practices allow them to share experiences even when physically separated.
Trauma and Relationships
Traumatic experiences such as combat can take a toll on a soldier's mental health, leading to emotional distance and disconnection from others. To manage this, soldiers seek support from peers and family members, who provide a safe space to talk about their feelings and experiences. Therapy sessions can be effective in helping soldiers process their trauma and work towards healing. They may also participate in group therapy or join online communities where they can connect with others who have similar experiences. Some soldiers find solace in physical activities like running, lifting weights, or yoga, which help them release tension and focus on the present moment. Exercise has been shown to reduce stress and improve mood, making it an excellent coping mechanism for those dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Environmental Stressors
Soldiers must adjust to new environments during deployment, such as unfamiliar cultures, weather conditions, and challenging terrain. This change can be overwhelming and cause strain on relationships due to cultural differences or isolation. To cope with these stressors, soldiers rely on social support networks, including fellow troops and local community members. Some soldiers engage in team building exercises that promote bonding and create strong bonds between members. Others turn to spirituality, meditation, or prayer, seeking comfort and strength outside themselves. By cultivating resilience and adaptability skills, soldiers become better equipped to handle environmental stressors and maintain healthy relationships despite the challenges they face.
How do soldiers cope with relational strain caused by partner absence, trauma, or environmental stressors?
Soldiers are people like anyone else who have personal preferences and different ways of coping with life challenges. Some may be more resilient than others, while some might need professional help to deal with the relational strain caused by partner absence, trauma, or environmental stressors.