Soldiers are individuals who serve in the military for a certain period. They have to go through several training sessions before they can be sent out to battlefields. While on duty, they encounter stressful situations that may affect their physical and psychological well-being. As a result, soldiers experience challenges managing their sexual expression, emotional needs, and relational commitment, which are crucial aspects of human life. This article will explain how soldiers manage these three areas under prolonged stress.
Sexual Expression
Soldiers have to control their sexual behavior while on duty. During warfare, they need to remain focused on their tasks and avoid distractions such as sex. Some soldiers even suppress their sexual desire due to fear of being caught engaging in it. Others confess their desires but face rejection from their partners because their partners feel threatened by the circumstances. Soldiers who are away from home for extended periods often have no access to intimate relationships or sexual pleasure. This deprivation is detrimental to their mental health and performance. To cope with this situation, some soldiers masturbate alone, others turn to prostitution, and still others resort to rape.
Emotional Needs
During warfare, soldiers experience trauma, including witnessing deaths and injuries, making them emotionally unstable. Most soldiers suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety disorders. These conditions lead to feelings of isolation, helplessness, guilt, anger, frustration, and shame. Soldiers also experience difficulties expressing their emotions because of the stigma associated with showing weakness. They have to repress their emotions, resulting in increased levels of aggression, violence, and hostility.
Relational Commitment
Soldiers' work schedules make it challenging for them to maintain meaningful relationships. Many soldiers struggle to balance between their military duties and family responsibilities. This dilemma leads to marital problems, divorces, and relationship breakups. In addition, deployments can last up to a year or more, leading to prolonged separation from loved ones. The lack of communication during deployment can result in resentment, jealousy, and suspicion when they reunite. Soldiers may engage in extramarital affairs while deployed as an alternative way of managing their needs and desires.
These relationships are often short-lived and do not offer the same level of intimacy and commitment as those at home.
Soldiers face numerous challenges in managing sexual expression, emotional needs, and relational commitment under prolonged stress. Although these issues affect them psychologically and physically, they continue to serve diligently despite the hardships.
How do soldiers manage sexual expression, emotional needs, and relational commitment under prolonged stress?
Soldiers can manage their sexual expression and emotional needs through various ways during times of prolonged stress. They may engage in physical activities that reduce tension, such as exercise or meditation. Some soldiers may also seek support from mental health professionals who can provide therapy sessions to help them process and regulate their emotions. Additionally, soldiers can establish strong relationships with other individuals who share similar experiences, which can provide social support and understanding.