Although all marriages have challenges, such issues may be heightened in military marriage, especially without proper planning. And if you fail to address the obstacles sooner, they can strain your marriage and eventually lead you to divorce. Here are some common causes of divorce in the military and what to do.
Frequent Deployments and Long Separations
One of the most significant stressors in military marriages is the frequent and often prolonged separations due to deployments. When a service member is deployed for months or even years, the distance can lead to feelings of loneliness and emotional disconnect. The absence of a partner can strain communication and reduce the sense of closeness essential for maintaining a solid bond. Over time, these separations can create an emotional chasm, leading to misunderstandings, unmet expectations, and divorce.
High-Stress Environment
The constant pressure of living under strict protocols, the risk of injury or death, and the challenges of reintegrating into family life after deployment can take a toll on both spouses. This high-stress environment often leads to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD, which eventually affects relationships. The spouse at home may struggle to cope with their partner’s changes, leading to conflict and, in some cases, the need to consult a military divorce lawyer to explore options for separation.
Financial Strain
Financial difficulties are a common issue in military marriages. While the military provides steady income, the costs associated with frequent relocations, maintaining two households during deployment, or managing a family on a single income can lead to significant financial strain. The stress of budgeting, debt, and economic insecurity can amplify existing marital tensions, making it harder to maintain a stable and happy relationship.
Constant Relocation
The transient nature of military life means frequent relocations, often to different states or countries. This constant uprooting can be challenging for the non-military spouse, who may have to leave behind jobs, friends, and support networks. The strain of continually adjusting to new environments, finding new employment, and establishing a new social circle can create feelings of isolation and resentment. Over time, these repeated disruptions can erode the foundation of the marriage, leading to divorce.
Difficulty in Reintegrating After Deployment
Returning home after deployment should be joyful, but it often comes with its own challenges. Service members may struggle to transition back to civilian life, including reconnecting with their spouses and family. This reintegration process can be complex, especially if the service member has experienced trauma or has become accustomed to the rigid structure of military life. The spouse at home may feel that they have grown apart during the separation, and the changes in their partner can be challenging to accept. This adjustment period can lead to conflicts, misunderstandings, and, ultimately, the dissolution of the marriage.
Infidelity and Trust Issues
Infidelity is a significant factor in military divorces. The long periods of separation and the stress of military life can sometimes lead to infidelity, either by the service member or the spouse left at home. Once trust is broken, rebuilding can be challenging, especially in a marriage already strained by the demands of military life. The emotional toll of infidelity and the resulting loss of trust often lead to the end of the marriage.
Final Thoughts
Military marriages face unique and often overwhelming challenges, and sometimes, a divorce remains the only viable solution. Understanding the culprits can help you pre
vent divorce, but if it gets to no reconciliation, consult experts for guidance.