How do couples foster environments where a returning soldier feels emotionally safe?
Asking your partner to return from combat can be difficult. They may have gone through traumatic experiences, seen horrific things, been exposed to violence, faced death threats, and witnessed painful injuries and loss. It is normal for them to experience nightmares, anxiety attacks, depression, flashbacks, irritability, and insomnia. You may notice that they're angry, numb, distant, impulsive, reckless, detached, moody, unpredictable, or suspicious. The transition back home can be challenging for both you and them. To help your partner feel emotionally safe, take the following steps:
1) **Listen** - Be there for them and listen without judgment. Ask open-ended questions, validate their feelings, and show genuine concern. Let them know that it's okay to talk about their experiences and express themselves. 2) **Support** - Help your partner adapt to civilian life by providing practical support such as managing finances, finding employment, and seeking medical care. Encourage them to engage in activities that bring them joy and fulfillment. 3) **Communicate** - Share your thoughts and feelings with one another, communicate clearly, and resolve conflicts effectively. Avoid criticizing, blaming, or dismissing your partner's emotions. 4) **Understand** - Learn about PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), C-PTSD (Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury), MST (Military Sexual Trauma), and other traumas that soldiers face. Educate yourself on how these conditions affect individuals and relationships. 5) **Relax** - Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or massage together. Plan fun outings, vacations, dates, and social events to ease stress. 6) **Give space** - Respect their need for time alone and personal space. Don't try to force intimacy or rush the healing process. 7) **Be patient** - Recovery takes time and effort. It may be difficult to regain trust, build intimacy, and reconnect emotionally after a long absence. Be understanding and forgiving of mistakes, missteps, and setbacks. Seek professional help if needed.
By fostering an environment where they feel safe and supported, you can help your returning soldier heal and grow stronger together as a couple. Remember, it's not just about talking but also doing things together.
How do couples foster environments where a returning soldier feels emotionally safe?
Emotional safety is necessary for people who have returned from war so that they can reintegrate into society. Couples can help create an environment where soldiers feel comfortable expressing their feelings by being supportive, respectful, and understanding of what they may be experiencing during this transition period. They should also avoid judgmental attitudes and try to understand the soldier's perspective on life after battle.