For many couples, marriage is a union of two people committed to sharing life’s trials and triumphs together. For those in the military, maintaining this bond can present unique challenges due to the nature of their job. Extended absences, frequent relocations, and the potential for danger can all bring stress and strain to even the healthiest relationship. But with an understanding of how these factors affect marriages and proactive measures taken by both partners, it is possible to build strong connections that can withstand the pressures of military service.

When one partner serves in the military, couples often face an array of difficulties due to their significant other’s deployment or relocation. While many couples can maintain strong relationships despite these hardships, it is not uncommon for military marriages to suffer due to these trying times.

Many couples file for divorce due to the effects of military service. According to the Pew Research Center, “the divorce rate for those married for less than three years was slightly higher in the military than among civilians (17% compared with 13%).” This statistic illustrates how difficult it can be for young couples who are just starting out in their marriage while facing the unique challenges posed by one partner joining the military.

Stresses on Military Marriages:

The strain placed on marriages due to military service is largely related to frequent changes in location and long absences from home during deployments. As a result, a spouse in a deployed status may feel disconnected from their partner at home, leading to feelings of neglect or insecurity. Additionally, when one partner serves overseas, this can lead to language and culture barriers that make it difficult for couples to communicate effectively.

The emotional and physical stress of service can also take its toll on military relationships. For example, some of the best military divorce lawyers have found a correlation between soldiers who have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and increased rates of divorce among their spouses at home.

PTSD can manifest itself in many different ways, such as depression and anxiety. This can be difficult for civilian spouses to understand or accept, leading to added tension in the relationship.

Ways to Support Military Marriages:

Fortunately, there are ways for couples affected by military service to maintain a healthy relationship. In a study of 1,000 married veterans conducted by the National Military Family Association (NMFA), it was found that “90 percent of respondents said they had implemented or planned to implement at least one strategy to strengthen their marriage during deployment.”

The best way for couples in this situation to keep their marriage strong is through communication and trust. Both spouses need to be honest and open with each other about how they feel and what they need to stay connected while separated. It can also be beneficial for couples to find support systems outside of their relationships, such as friends, family members, counselors, or even other military spouses.

Navigating a marriage in the military can be challenging due to the unique stresses associated with military life. However, couples affected by this situation are not without hope. By taking proactive steps to stay connected and understanding how military service affects marriages, couples can strengthen their bond and remain committed for years to come.