Relationship Maintenance Strategies for Deployment Separation
Deployment separations can be challenging for military couples, as they often involve extended periods of time apart and unique stressors. During these times, it is important to prioritize relationship maintenance strategies that can help keep the bond between partners strong. Here are some tips for staying connected while you're away from your partner:
1. Communicate frequently: Regular communication is key when maintaining a healthy relationship during deployment separation. Make sure to check in regularly via phone calls, video chats, text messages, emails, or letters. This will help prevent misunderstandings and miscommunication and provide a sense of connection even when you're miles apart. Consider using technology like Skype or FaceTime to make video calls more personal.
2. Plan ahead: Be proactive about planning for your absence before you leave. Discuss expectations for communication frequency, support needs, and potential issues that may arise. Talk about how each partner will handle different situations, such as disagreements or emergencies. Having a plan in place can reduce anxiety and uncertainty, making it easier to focus on the task at hand.
3. Share experiences: Keep each other informed about what you're doing and thinking throughout the day. Take photos or videos of your activities and share them with your partner. This can help them feel included in your life and make the separation seem less daunting. It can also create opportunities for shared memories and conversation starters once you're reunited.
4. Find distractions: Maintaining a routine and keeping busy can be helpful for both partners. Participate in hobbies, volunteer work, sports teams, or social activities to stay engaged and occupied. If possible, find ways to incorporate your partner into these activities, whether through virtual participation or by bringing them along when you return home.
5. Stay positive: Deployment separations can bring up emotions like anxiety, fear, loneliness, and anger. Try not to dwell on negative thoughts or feelings; instead, focus on the positives, like anticipating reunion or enjoying time with friends and family while away from your partner. Practice gratitude for your partner and the relationship you have built together.
6. Express appreciation: Showing love and affection can go a long way toward maintaining connection during deployment separation. Be sure to express appreciation for your partner's support, sacrifice, and patience. Send thoughtful gifts, cards, or notes to let them know they're being missed. Plan romantic dates or surprises for when you return home to show your continued commitment and devotion.
What strategies maintain relationship satisfaction during extended deployment-related separation?
When soldiers are deployed for an extended period of time away from their spouse, it can be challenging to keep the relationship strong and healthy. Research suggests that couples who remain connected while apart tend to have more successful relationships than those who do not (Lovejoy et al. , 2018). There are several strategies that may help individuals maintain relationship satisfaction despite being separated by distance. One such strategy is to prioritize communication with one's partner.