Partners often experience emotional instability when their partner is suddenly deployed. This can cause distress, anxiety, depression, loneliness, and fear for both partners. It is important to understand how each partner copes with this emotional rollercoaster ride in order to maintain a healthy relationship. When faced with an unexpected deployment, partners may feel abandoned, unsupported, and confused about what comes next. They might also worry about their loved one's safety, physical and mental well-being. To cope with these feelings, some partners try to stay busy with work or hobbies, while others seek support from friends or family. Others turn to substances such as alcohol or drugs to numb the pain. Some may even resort to infidelity as a way to deal with the stress. It is crucial that partners find healthy ways to process their emotions and communicate openly with each other during deployments. Here are some tips for dealing with emotional instability during a sudden deployment:
1) Talk openly about your feelings: Communication is key during this difficult time. Share your thoughts and concerns with each other without judgment or criticism. Be honest about what you need and want, and listen attentively to your partner's needs as well.
2) Stay connected: Try to keep up regular communication methods such as phone calls, text messages, emails, video chats, letters, etc., but be mindful of your partner's schedule and limits on accessibility. Make sure to check in regularly and offer reassurance when needed.
3) Find support: Reach out to trusted friends, family members, counselors, or therapists who can provide emotional support. Join support groups or online communities where you can connect with others going through similar experiences.
4) Engage in self-care: Take care of yourself emotionally and physically by engaging in activities that bring you joy, relaxation, and fulfillment. Exercise, meditate, read books, cook, write, travel, etc. Remember, a happy and healthy partner is more likely to cope better than someone who is overwhelmed or burned out.
5) Plan ahead: Prepare for the unexpected by creating a plan together before the deployment begins. Discuss how you will handle emergencies, finances, childcare, etc., while they are gone. This will help reduce stress and anxiety about the unknown.
6) Have realistic expectations: Accept that deployments are challenging and there may not be any easy answers to all of life's problems. Understand that your relationship might look different during this time due to distance and lack of physical contact. Be patient, kind, and compassionate towards each other. By using these tips, partners can navigate the emotional rollercoaster ride caused by sudden deployments and come out stronger on the other side.
How do partners cope with the emotional instability caused by sudden deployments?
Partners often face significant challenges when dealing with their partner's sudden deployment abroad. The sudden absence of their loved ones can leave them feeling lonely and anxious, which may lead to difficulties with daily activities such as eating, sleeping, and performing household chores.