Relationships between couples can be strained after one partner experiences trauma while serving their country. When a soldier returns from combat, they may have difficulty adjusting to civilian life and exhibit increased levels of stress, anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This can lead to changes in behavior that affect their relationship with their partner, such as irritability, anger, sadness, or feelings of detachment.
There are strategies that partners can use to navigate these changes and maintain healthy communication and connection during this challenging time. In this article, we will explore some effective ways for partners to support their loved ones who have recently returned from deployment and help them heal from the effects of war.
One important strategy is to provide emotional support and validation. Partners should avoid making assumptions about why their partner is acting differently or becoming distant. Instead, they should listen actively, offer empathy, and validate their feelings without judgment.
If the veteran expresses frustration or anger, the partner could say "It makes sense that you're feeling angry right now" instead of dismissing their emotions. Another helpful strategy is to encourage open communication by creating opportunities for dialogue. The partner can ask questions like "How are you feeling today?" or "What do you need right now?" to start conversations and make it easier for the veteran to share their thoughts and feelings.
Setting aside regular time for intimate activities together can help both partners reconnect physically and emotionally. This could include going on dates, engaging in physical activity, or simply spending quality time at home.
Another essential step is to seek professional help when needed. Veterans may benefit from counseling to process their experiences and work through any lingering trauma or PTSD symptoms. By attending couples therapy with their partner, they can learn coping skills that will improve their relationship and address any underlying issues that have been exacerbated by combat stress. It is also crucial to be patient with each other during this transition period. Partners should understand that it takes time for veterans to adjust to civilian life and let go of some of the behaviors they developed while serving overseas. They may need extra space or time alone to process their feelings before reengaging in the relationship fully.
Partners should prioritize self-care and practice compassion toward themselves as well as their loved ones. Taking breaks and seeking support from friends or family members can help prevent burnout and enable both parties to provide the best care possible.
By implementing these strategies, partners can navigate relational change after deployment more effectively and help their loved one heal from the traumatic effects of war. With patience, understanding, and open communication, relationships can grow stronger than ever before, despite the challenges posed by military service.
How do partners navigate relational change when soldiers experience heightened sensitivity or irritability after deployment?
According to research on veterans' mental health and relationships, changes to relational dynamics can be challenging for both partners of service members who have experienced trauma during their deployments (Hayden et al. , 2015).