Emotional intimacy refers to the strong bond between individuals that is characterized by trust, openness, vulnerability, affection, and mutual support. It is an essential aspect of human life, particularly in romantic relationships where it can enhance feelings of love, security, and belonging.
Its significance extends beyond romantic ties, even during times of stress and conflict. One such context is active combat, which involves exposure to traumatic events and severe physical and mental challenges. Research has shown that emotional intimacy can provide protection against the psychological effects of combat, but what role does it play? This article explores this question, examining how emotional intimacy buffers against the impacts of combat on soldiers' well-being.
The Effects of Combat on Mental Health
Active combat exposes soldiers to many risks, including death, injury, and witnessing violence and suffering. These experiences can lead to various mental health problems, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and suicide. PTSD is one of the most common mental health issues among veterans, affecting up to 20% of those who have served in Iraq or Afghanistan. It is a chronic condition characterized by intrusive memories, avoidance, hyperarousal, and negative thoughts and moods. Symptoms may not surface until months or years after deployment, making them difficult to diagnose and treat.
Emotional Intimacy in Combat Situations
Despite these risks, some soldiers thrive in combat situations and maintain good mental health. This resilience might be attributed to their ability to form strong relationships with fellow soldiers. Emotional intimacy is particularly important in combat because it provides comfort, support, and distraction during times of adversity.
Soldiers who feel emotionally close to their comrades are more likely to open up about their experiences, leading to greater understanding and empathy. They also share resources, such as food and shelter, which reduces the burden of individual hardship. In addition, emotional closeness can enhance self-esteem and social identity, providing a sense of belonging and purpose.
How Emotional Intimacy Protects Against Psychological Effects of Combat
Research has found that emotional intimacy buffers against the psychological effects of combat, including PTSD. One study compared soldiers who had low levels of emotional intimacy with those who had high levels and found that the latter had lower rates of PTSD symptoms. Another study showed that soldiers' willingness to seek help for mental health issues was related to their level of emotional intimacy with others. Higher levels of intimacy were associated with better access to care, suggesting that soldiers felt more comfortable discussing personal matters and seeking treatment.
Mechanisms behind Emotional Intimacy's Protective Role
The mechanisms underlying emotional intimacy's protective role in combat are complex. One possibility is that it reduces stress by promoting relaxation and enhancing coping skills. This may be due to the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and socialization.
Soldiers who feel supported by their comrades may experience less distress during traumatic events because they have someone to rely on for comfort and reassurance.
Emotional intimacy may buffer against negative thoughts and feelings by promoting positive cognitions and attributions about oneself and one's environment.
Implications for Treatment and Policy
Emotional intimacy's importance in combat suggests several implications for treatment and policy. Firstly, mental health professionals should consider interventions targeted at improving emotional closeness among soldiers, such as group therapy or peer support programs. Secondly, policies aimed at reducing combat exposure and mitigating its impacts could incorporate strategies to enhance emotional intimacy, such as assigning soldiers to smaller units or providing opportunities for recreational activities.
Policymakers can work to ensure that veterans receive adequate post-deployment resources, including housing, education, and job training, which can help them form strong relationships outside of military life.
Emotional intimacy plays an important role in buffering against the psychological effects of active combat. It provides comfort, support, and distraction from the challenges of warfare while also protecting against symptoms like PTSD. By understanding this relationship, we can develop more effective treatments and policies to promote resilience among those who serve our country.
What role does emotional intimacy play in buffering against the psychological effects of active combat?
The lack of emotional connection with loved ones can negatively impact an individual's psychological wellbeing during and after active combat. It has been demonstrated that soldiers who feel emotionally connected to their families back home are better able to cope with stressful situations and exhibit higher levels of resilience. This is because emotional support from family members helps them feel more secure and confident in themselves, which can reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.