How Partners Outside the Military Manage Anxiety Related To Their Loved One's Deployment
Partners outside the military are often left alone while their spouse is deployed abroad for an extended period. This can cause many emotions and feelings that must be dealt with individually. In this article, we will discuss how partners can manage anxiety related to their loved one's deployment, including tips for coping strategies, support groups, communication tactics, and seeking professional help if necessary. We will also explore ways to maintain emotional connection and intimacy during long separations.
We will provide resources for additional reading and support.
Coping Strategies
One way to cope with anxiety related to a partner's deployment is to stay busy. Engage in activities you enjoy, such as exercising, volunteering, or hobbies. Stay connected to friends and family who can offer support and companionship. Seek out local meetups or online communities specifically designed for military families dealing with separation anxiety. Create a daily routine to maintain structure and regularity in your life. Journaling can be helpful in processing difficult emotions and working through them productively.
Communication Tactics
Good communication is key when managing anxiety related to a partner's deployment. Establish a regular schedule of check-ins via phone, text, or video call. Be honest about your fears and concerns but avoid excessive negativity or dwelling on worst-case scenarios. Share happy moments and positive updates from home. Avoid comparing your situation to others - everyone experiences deployment differently and no two relationships are the same. Reassure your partner that they are not alone in their worries and fears, even though they may feel isolated at times. Encourage them to reach out to other deployed service members for support.
Maintaining Emotional Connection and Intimacy
Maintaining emotional connection and intimacy during extended periods of separation requires effort and creativity. Plan special dates and surprises for each other. Send care packages or handwritten letters to show your love and affection. Practice active listening and empathy when talking about challenges your partner faces while away. Take turns sharing stories and updates. Keep up with sexual intimacy if possible, using technology and other tools to stay connected physically as well as emotionally. Seek professional help for couples therapy if necessary to work through challenges and build stronger foundations for your relationship.
Resources for Additional Support
If you or your loved one needs additional support, consider joining a military family support group or seeking professional counseling services. Many organizations provide resources specifically for families dealing with military deployments, including online chat rooms, hotlines, and peer-to-peer support groups. Some popular ones include Military OneSource, Military Family Association, and Military Wives Club.
Many local churches and community centers offer free or low-cost counseling services for those in need.
Research online communities and blogs focused on military life and deployment anxiety to connect with other partners who understand what you're going through.
Managing anxiety related to a partner's deployment can be difficult but is not impossible. By following these tips and seeking additional support, you can maintain emotional connection and healthy communication throughout the process. Remember that every situation is unique and that there are resources available to help you along the way.
How do partners outside the military manage anxiety related to their loved one's deployment?
The anxiety that partners of deployed soldiers may experience is often characterized by feelings of loneliness, worry, and sadness. It can also be associated with physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and insomnia. Partners who are not themselves in the military may find it difficult to understand the unique challenges faced by their significant other during deployment and may struggle to cope with the uncertainty of the situation.