Emotional closeness refers to the feeling of being connected with someone else's thoughts, feelings, or experiences on an emotional level. It can be achieved through strong bonds, such as family ties, romantic relationships, friendships, and trusting relationships. Combat-related anxiety, on the other hand, is a type of anxiety that occurs when one is faced with situations involving danger, fear, stress, or violence. This form of anxiety is often experienced by individuals who are in combat settings, whether they have been involved in real combat themselves or witnessed it. The relationship between emotional closeness and the management of combat-related anxiety has been studied extensively by psychologists. They believe that emotional closeness plays a crucial role in managing this type of anxiety.
One way in which emotional closeness helps manage combat-related anxiety is by providing a sense of security. When people feel emotionally close to others, they tend to feel safe and protected. This safety is especially important for those in combat settings where there is always the risk of death or injury. Emotional closeness provides individuals with a sense of belonging, support, and comfort, making them less susceptible to the effects of combat-related anxiety. In addition, emotional closeness helps individuals cope better with trauma. Traumatic events such as war can cause severe emotional distress, which can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) if left untreated.
Research shows that individuals who experience strong emotional closeness are more likely to seek help and recover from PTSD than those who do not.
Another way in which emotional closeness helps manage combat-related anxiety is by reducing feelings of isolation. Individuals who feel isolated may be more prone to combat-related anxiety because they lack social support. Emotional closeness reduces this feeling of isolation by allowing individuals to connect with others who share similar experiences, fears, or concerns. This connection makes them feel understood, supported, and accepted, enabling them to deal with their anxieties more effectively. Moreover, emotional closeness fosters resilience, which enables individuals to handle stressful situations without becoming overwhelmed.
Emotional closeness plays an essential role in managing combat-related anxiety. It provides individuals with a sense of safety, coping mechanisms, and resilience, all of which are critical factors in preventing or treating combat-related anxiety. Therefore, building strong bonds with family members, friends, colleagues, or therapists can significantly benefit those who have experienced combat-related anxiety.
What is the relationship between emotional closeness and the management of combat-related anxiety?
Many veterans who have experienced traumatic events during their military service may develop symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This can include intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance behaviors, increased arousal, negative changes in mood and cognition, as well as emotional numbing.