The impact of military deployment on mental health has been widely studied, but less attention has been paid to how it affects individual soldiers' romantic lives. Deployment often means being away from home for extended periods, which can put strain on relationships and create feelings of loneliness and isolation. Intimate support during deployments may help alleviate these issues and mitigate the negative psychological effects of frequent separations. This article will explore the research on this topic and provide recommendations for providing effective intimate support to deployed individuals.
How does repeated deployment affect mental health?
Repeated deployment can have serious consequences on an individual's mental health. Studies have shown that soldiers who are frequently deployed experience higher levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than their counterparts who do not deploy as often. These effects can persist long after the deployment ends, leading to difficulties in daily life, job performance, and interpersonal relationships.
How does deployment affect romantic relationships?
Deployments also have a significant effect on romantic relationships. The physical separation caused by deployment can cause partners to feel lonely and isolated, leading to lower levels of satisfaction with their relationship. In addition, the stresses of deployment can make it difficult for couples to communicate effectively, leading to misunderstandings and conflict.
The trauma of combat experiences can lead to emotional distance between partners, making it harder to reconnect when they reunite.
Can intimate support reduce cumulative psychological effects of repeated deployments?
What is intimate support?
Intimate support refers to any kind of touch or connection between two people that promotes closeness, trust, and understanding. It can take many forms, including hugging, kissing, cuddling, holding hands, massage, caressing, sexual activity, and other expressions of affection. This type of support is particularly important during periods of separation because it helps to maintain a sense of connection despite physical distance.
Research findings
Several studies have investigated whether intimate support can reduce the negative effects of repeated deployments on mental health. One study found that soldiers who received regular support from their partners during deployment had lower rates of PTSD than those who did not receive such support. Another study showed that frequent communication between deployed individuals and their partners was associated with better overall well-being. A third study demonstrated that regular sex during deployments helped to reduce stress and anxiety in both partners.
Recommendations for providing effective intimate support
There are several ways to provide intimate support during deployments. Firstly, it's essential to be creative and thoughtful about how you express your love and affection while apart. Regular phone calls, video chats, and emails can help keep the relationship strong. Secondly, it may be helpful to establish rituals or traditions that help to connect you emotionally, even if physically separated.
Try to make time for meaningful conversations when reunited, which can help to repair any damage caused by the deployment.
Can intimate support reduce cumulative psychological effects of repeated deployments?
The research literature suggests that military families who experience repeated deployments may be at an increased risk for mental health problems due to the accumulation of stressors associated with separation from loved ones and exposure to traumatic events during deployment. Intimate support, such as having a strong marital relationship and social support system, has been shown to buffer these negative effects.