Soldiers are expected to be strong, brave, and emotionally resilient, which can create a tension within them between their need for support and connection and the expectation that they must always appear stoic and unemotional. This tension can have both short-term and long-term effects on their mental health and wellbeing. In this article, I will explore some strategies that soldiers may use to cope with this tension and maintain their emotional stability while fulfilling their duties.
Developing a Support System
One way that soldiers can cope with the tension between vulnerability and stoicism is by developing a network of supportive individuals who understand their experiences and provide emotional and practical support. This can include family members, friends, fellow soldiers, and mental health professionals. These individuals can offer a safe space for soldiers to express their feelings, receive feedback, and seek advice when needed. They can also help soldiers navigate the challenges of daily life and provide a sense of belonging and community. Building a strong support system takes time and effort, but it can make a significant difference in a soldier's overall wellbeing.
Practicing Mindfulness
Mindfulness practices such as meditation or yoga can help soldiers become more aware of their thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations without judgment. By learning to observe these without reacting, soldiers can gain greater control over their internal states and reduce the intensity of negative feelings. Mindfulness practices can also help soldiers develop new habits and attitudes that promote resilience and self-compassion.
Finding time and space to practice mindfulness can be difficult during military service, so soldiers must prioritize these activities and make them a part of their routine.
Seeking Professional Help
Soldiers may benefit from seeking professional help if they are struggling to cope with the tension between vulnerability and stoicism on their own. Mental health professionals can provide individualized treatment plans that address specific needs and goals. This can include therapy, medication, and other interventions designed to improve mood, reduce stress, and enhance coping skills. Some soldiers may hesitate to seek help due to stigma or fear of being seen as weak, but mental health is an essential aspect of overall health and should not be ignored.
Coping with the tension between vulnerability and the expectation of stoicism requires conscious effort and dedication. Soldiers who prioritize their emotional wellbeing and seek support when needed are better equipped to manage this tension and maintain their overall health and effectiveness in their roles. It's essential for both individuals and organizations to create a culture where seeking help is normalized and supported.
By acknowledging the challenges of this tension and taking action to mitigate its effects, soldiers can thrive personally and professionally.
How do soldiers cope with the internal tension between vulnerability and the expectation of stoicism?
The notion that men should not show emotion is deeply ingrained in many cultures around the world. This stereotype can be traced back to the Victorian era when it was considered unmanly for a man to express his feelings. The pressure to maintain this stiff upper lip has been passed down through generations, and it continues to influence the way men behave today. While there are some exceptions, most men feel they need to hide their emotions, even from themselves.