Soldiers are trained to be strong, brave, and resilient. They face dangerous situations daily and have to overcome physical and emotional challenges to survive in harsh conditions.
They also experience extreme stress that can affect their mental health and wellbeing. This article explores how soldiers cope psychologically when vulnerability is incompatible with military-trained resilience.
The importance of resilience for soldiers
Resilience is essential for soldiers because it helps them deal with trauma and stress. It allows them to bounce back from adversity and continue functioning in difficult circumstances. Military training teaches soldiers to stay focused on mission objectives despite hardships, which is an important aspect of resilience. Training teaches them how to control fear, anxiety, anger, and other negative feelings so that they don't interfere with performance. Resilience also involves self-control and adaptability to new environments. Soldiers need these qualities to stay alert, vigilant, and effective even under pressure.
Vulnerability in conflict zones
In a combat zone, soldiers must suppress their vulnerability. They cannot show weakness or emotion because it could put themselves and others at risk. When soldiers feel vulnerable, it can lead to guilt, shame, fear, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A soldier who experiences trauma may struggle to maintain resilience and can become overwhelmed by negative thoughts and emotions.
Coping mechanisms
Soldiers use different coping mechanisms to manage their vulnerability and build resilience. One common strategy is to distract oneself through activities like sports, music, art, or socializing. Another approach is to seek support from fellow soldiers or mental health professionals. Some soldiers engage in physical exercise, meditation, or prayer to reduce stress. Others find meaning in their work or personal relationships outside the military. Regular communication with loved ones helps soldiers cope with loneliness and isolation.
Overcoming stigma
Stigma surrounding psychological struggles in the military can make soldiers reluctant to seek help. The military culture promotes stoicism and self-reliance, which can lead to silence about mental health problems. Many soldiers believe seeking treatment is a sign of weakness or that they will be dismissed as unfit for duty if they admit to having issues. It's essential for commanders to create an environment where soldiers feel comfortable discussing their challenges without fear of judgment or retaliation.
Coping with vulnerability while maintaining resilience is challenging for soldiers. They must navigate complex emotional and psychological terrain while fulfilling their duties. Mental health care should be prioritized so that soldiers receive the support they need to thrive in difficult circumstances. By acknowledging the humanity of soldiers and supporting their wellbeing, we can ensure that they remain effective warriors while also preserving their mental health.
How do soldiers cope psychologically when vulnerability feels incompatible with military-trained resilience?
One way that soldiers may cope psychologically when their vulnerability seems incompatible with their military training is by acknowledging and accepting their feelings of vulnerability as normal. This can be done through self-reflection, journaling, talking with trusted friends or family members, or seeking professional help from a mental health provider.