Tips To Help You Survive When Your Spouse Is Away

Being separated from your spouse due to deployments, TDY, unaccompanied tours, work other than military or other obligations can be challenging, but there are several tips that can help you survive and thrive during this time apart.

Here are some suggestions:

Communicate, Communicate, Communicate

Establish a regular communication routine with your spouse. Schedule regular phone calls, video chats, or even send each other daily updates via text or email. This will help you stay connected and feel close despite the physical distance. If you’re unable to talk, text or email. Keep a journal to share upon your spouses return.

Stay positive

Maintaining a positive mindset can make a big difference. Focus on the reasons for the separation and the goals you both want to achieve. Remind yourself that this time apart is temporary and that you’ll be reunited soon. This is also a great time to reevaluate who YOU are.

Build a support network

Reach out to friends, family, and other loved ones for support. Surrounding yourself with a strong support network can help ease feelings of loneliness and provide a source of emotional support. Connect with us here at MilSpouse Conversations and attend one of our virtual monthly events or attend an in-person event when we come to your town.

Keep busy

Engage in activities and hobbies that you enjoy. Keeping yourself occupied with work, hobbies, or personal projects can help distract you from missing your spouse and give you a sense of purpose. BUT don’t allow yourself to get too busy or overwhelmed. 

Take care of yourself

Prioritize self-care during this time. Make sure to eat well, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep. Engage in activities that promote relaxation and reduce stress, such as meditation, yoga, or reading.

Maintain routines

Stick to your daily routines as much as possible. Having a sense of structure and familiarity can help create a sense of stability and normalcy during the separation.

Plan visits or trips

If possible, plan visits or trips to see your spouse. Having something to look forward to can help alleviate the sense of longing and make the separation more manageable.

Seek professional help if needed

If you find it difficult to cope with the separation on your own, consider seeking the assistance of a therapist or counselor. They can provide guidance, support, and coping strategies tailored to your specific situation.

 Remember, every relationship and situation is unique, so adapt these tips to fit your circumstances. Stay connected with your spouse, take care of yourself, and focus on the positive aspects of the separation. With time, patience, and effort, you can successfully navigate this challenging period and strengthen your bond with your spouse.

And let’s not forget about connecting with us here at MilSpouse Conversations for our monthly virtual events, THEE Conversation, where YOU can have conversation, community and FUN with THEE Conversation Starters and other spouses to know that YOU are NOT alone.