Soldiers who serve in war zones can experience significant disruption to their romantic relationships due to lengthy deployments and the stressful nature of combat. This can lead to feelings of loneliness, isolation, and difficulty reconnecting with loved ones upon returning home. To help ease this transition, it is important for couples to prioritize communication and intimacy after deployment.
Communication:
One of the most crucial steps in recovering intimacy following deployment or trauma is improving communication between partners. This may involve setting aside regular times to talk about difficult topics, such as how they are feeling or what they experienced during their deployment. It's also helpful to listen actively and validate each other's emotions without judgment or interruption.
Physical Intimacy:
Physical intimacy can be just as important as verbal communication when it comes to rebuilding intimacy. Couples should try to schedule regular date nights or find ways to express affection outside of sex, like holding hands or hugging. They should also experiment with new activities that bring them closer together, such as taking a dance class or trying a new sport.
Sexual Intimacy:
After experiencing physical separation, sexual intimacy can be challenging to return to.
It is essential for maintaining a healthy relationship and promoting closeness. To overcome this challenge, soldiers should communicate openly with their partners about their needs and desires. Partners should be patient and understanding while exploring new boundaries and activities together.
Seeking Help:
If difficulties persist despite efforts to improve communication and intimacy, seeking professional support may be necessary. A therapist specializing in military families can help address underlying issues and provide tools for couples to use at home. Some couples may benefit from attending group counseling sessions or participating in family retreats specifically designed for veterans and their partners.
How do soldiers recover intimacy following relational disruptions caused by deployment or trauma?
The recovery of intimacy after deployment or traumatic experiences is a complex process that requires effort from both parties involved in the relationship. It can take time for both individuals to reconnect emotionally and physically and may involve seeking professional help if necessary. The first step is often to acknowledge the difficulties faced during the separation and express appreciation for each other's sacrifices. Open communication about feelings and expectations is crucial to establishing trust and understanding between partners.