Partners play a crucial role in keeping their loved ones connected during deployment. When soldiers experience stress, anxiety, fear, loneliness, or depression, they may develop coping strategies that can negatively impact their relationship. These strategies may involve avoiding difficult feelings or situations, separating them from their partner, or distancing themselves to protect themselves from further pain. Partners need to understand these behaviors and learn how to communicate effectively to maintain emotional connection.
Here are some ways partners can connect when their soldier's coping strategy involves avoidance:
1. Acknowledge the situation: Recognize that your soldier may be feeling vulnerable and have difficulty expressing his/her thoughts and feelings. Be patient and listen without judgment.
2. Create opportunities for connection: Schedule regular video calls, write letters, send care packages, or plan fun activities together. This will help you stay close despite distance.
3. Communicate openly: Ask questions about your soldier's experiences and concerns. Share your own feelings and struggles. Encourage your soldier to do the same.
4. Seek support: Reach out to friends, family, or counselors who can provide guidance and understanding. Find local groups that offer resources and support for military families.
5. Practice self-care: Take time for yourself to reduce stress, relax, and recharge. This will improve your mood and make you more available to your soldier.
6. Celebrate milestones: Mark important occasions with photos, videos, and memories. Remind your soldier of the reasons why you love each other and the future you envision together.
By using these strategies, partners can maintain a strong emotional connection even if their soldiers use avoidance as a coping mechanism. By communicating openly, seeking support, practicing self-care, and celebrating milestones, partners can show their loved ones they understand and appreciate them. With patience, effort, and dedication, partners can strengthen their relationship while their soldiers are deployed and prepare for life after deployment.
How do partners maintain emotional connection when soldiers' coping strategies include avoidance, compartmentalization, or detachment?
One of the most common ways for military couples to maintain emotional connection is through active listening. Active listening involves paying attention to both verbal and nonverbal communication cues during conversation. This can help partners understand each other better and feel more connected despite the presence of avoidance, compartmentalization, or detachment in one partner's coping strategy.