After deploying abroad, many soldiers experience a wide range of emotions that are difficult for them to express to their partners back home. In fact, some may even feel ashamed or embarrassed to reveal how they truly felt during their time away from loved ones.
It is important for both parties involved to understand these feelings so they can work together towards healthy communication and trust. Here are three tips for maintaining patience and trust while your partner struggles to articulate complex emotional experiences from deployment:
1. Be patient - Recognize that it takes time for your partner to adjust back into civilian life after being stationed overseas for an extended period of time. It's natural for them to need extra attention and care when they return. Try not to get frustrated if they seem distant or disconnected; instead, offer comfort and understanding whenever possible.
Be willing to listen without judgment as your partner shares what happened while deployed. Remember that each person has different coping mechanisms for dealing with trauma, and this could include avoidance or denial.
2. Encourage openness and honesty - Let your partner know that you want to hear everything about their deployment experience, even though it may be uncomfortable at first. Create a safe space where they feel comfortable opening up and sharing their thoughts freely. Ask questions when necessary but don't press too hard. Reassure your partner that you won't judge them or make them feel bad for what happened on the job.
3. Offer support and understanding - As your partner opens up more, show empathy by actively listening and validating their emotions. Use phrases like "I'm here for you" and "that must have been really tough." Don't try to fix their problems right away or offer advice unless asked; just let them vent without interruption. You can also suggest other forms of therapy or counseling if needed.
Maintain patience throughout the process and allow your loved one to take things at their own pace.
By following these tips, partners can help create a positive environment in which both parties are able to express themselves honestly and work towards a healthier relationship. Patience, trust, and understanding will go a long way in keeping communication lines open during challenging times.
How do partners maintain patience and trust when soldiers struggle to articulate complex emotional experiences from deployment?
Research suggests that partners of military personnel who are deployed overseas often experience anxiety about their loved ones' safety and wellbeing during their absence. These concerns may cause them to become preoccupied with thoughts of danger, fear, and uncertainty, which can lead to feelings of frustration, stress, and impatience. Additionally, communication between deployed service members and their partners is limited due to geographical distance and restricted access to technology, leading to increased emotional distress for both parties.