The ability to maintain healthy relationships is an important aspect of being human. This is particularly true for soldiers who face unique challenges that can affect their personal lives and relationships. Sustaining relational resilience under these circumstances requires a great deal of effort and awareness. One of the most significant obstacles faced by soldiers is dealing with traumatic experiences while remaining connected to family and friends. These experiences can include combat, injury, death of comrades, and even the sense of loss associated with returning home after deployment. The psychological impact of these events can be devastating, but there are ways for soldiers to work through them and maintain positive connections with loved ones. Here's how:
1. Recognize and manage symptoms of PTSD: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common consequence of military service, affecting up to 20% of veterans. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, depression, and avoidance behaviors. It's essential to recognize these signs in yourself or your partner and seek help from a mental health professional if needed. If you experience PTSD, it doesn't mean you won't be able to sustain relationships - far from it! You just need to learn how to manage the symptoms effectively so they don't interfere with your life.
2. Practice active listening: Active listening means truly paying attention to what someone says without interruptions or distractions. When we communicate this way, we show our partners that we value them and care about their thoughts and feelings. This helps build trust and connection in a relationship. Soldiers often have difficulty connecting due to their training and lifestyle, so practicing active listening can go a long way towards improving communication.
3. Establish boundaries: Boundaries are guidelines that define acceptable behavior between two people. They allow us to set limits on what we will and won't tolerate from others while protecting ourselves emotionally. Healthy boundary setting requires honesty and openness. If you feel uncomfortable discussing certain topics with your partner, let them know why rather than shutting down or becoming defensive. This helps create an environment where both parties can express themselves freely.
4. Seek support: Supportive friends, family members, and fellow soldiers provide valuable emotional support during difficult times. Maintaining positive relationships outside of the military is crucial for maintaining resilience in your personal life. These connections can offer perspective, understanding, and even practical advice when things get tough. It's also important to recognize when you need additional help from a professional therapist or counselor - there's no shame in seeking assistance if needed.
5. Be patient and kind: Relationships take time and effort to develop. Don't expect immediate results; instead, focus on building a strong foundation over time. Patience and compassion are essential qualities for sustaining healthy relationships under any circumstances. Remember that communication breakdowns happen - don't punish your partner by withdrawing or getting angry. Instead, work through conflicts calmly and respectfully until they're resolved.
Sustaining relational resilience amid trauma and operational loss takes patience, persistence, and self-awareness. By practicing these techniques consistently, you can build stronger bonds with those you love most.
How do soldiers sustain relational resilience amid trauma and operational loss?
Relational resilience refers to the ability of individuals to maintain positive relationships despite adverse conditions such as traumatic experiences, losses, stressful situations, and other challenges. Research has shown that social support plays a crucial role in promoting relational resilience among soldiers who have experienced trauma and/or lost loved ones during their service (e. g. , friends, family members).