When soldiers return from combat deployments, they often struggle with the physical and mental consequences of their experiences. One consequence that is increasingly recognized is moral injury - when a person feels that their core values have been violated, which can result in feelings of guilt, shame, and despair. This can have a negative impact on their ability to build and maintain healthy relationships, both romantic and platonic.
There are several strategies that soldiers can use to manage these effects while still engaging with loved ones and friends.
Communication is key. Soldiers should be open and honest about their experiences and how they feel. This helps them process their emotions and also creates an environment where their loved ones understand what they're going through. It can also help them work together to find solutions to problems caused by moral injury.
If one soldier struggles with trust issues after witnessing violence, they may need time alone or space to rebuild that trust before spending time with others.
Social support is crucial for managing moral injury. This means having friends and family who offer encouragement, understanding, and empathy. They can provide an important buffer against feeling isolated and alone, and can give them the opportunity to talk through their thoughts and feelings without judgment. They may even help them identify new ways of thinking that allow them to cope better with moral injury's challenges.
Finding meaningful activities outside of relationships can also be beneficial. This might involve hobbies like sports, art, or volunteering, as well as personal growth opportunities such as therapy or counseling. When people feel fulfilled in other areas of life, it can reduce some of the pressure they experience when trying to maintain close connections.
Seeking professional help is often necessary for successful management of moral injury. A trained mental health provider can provide individualized guidance on coping skills and treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy, which has been shown to improve symptoms associated with moral injury. With proper care, soldiers can learn to manage their experiences while still enjoying positive and enriching relationships.
How do soldiers maintain relational engagement while managing the psychological effects of moral injury?
The way that soldiers maintain relational engagement while managing the psychological effects of moral injury is by seeking support from others, such as friends, family members, or mental health professionals. They may also participate in group therapy sessions where they can share their experiences with fellow veterans who have gone through similar traumas. Additionally, staying connected with loved ones back home can help provide a sense of normalcy and support during times when they feel disconnected from civilian life.