Some people who have served in combat zones experience chronic feelings of threat that can affect their relationships with partners upon returning home. This phenomenon is called posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and includes symptoms such as hypervigilance, irritability, and difficulties regulating emotions. Chronic PTSD is also associated with alterations to the brain's reward system, which can lead to reduced enjoyment of pleasurable activities like sex.
It remains unclear how this translates into long-term changes in sexual communication, body awareness, and relational expectations in veterans' romantic lives. In this article, we will explore these issues and provide guidance for couples seeking to navigate them.
One study found that veterans with PTSD were less likely than those without PTSD to report satisfaction with their sexual relationships. They were also more likely to report sexual dissatisfaction if they had experienced sexual assault or harassment during deployment. Another study found that PTSD affected men's perceptions of attractiveness and desire for physical closeness in their relationships. Specifically, men with higher PTSD scores were less likely to see themselves as desirable partners, and less likely to want to be touched by their partner. These results suggest that PTSD may interfere with sexual communication and intimacy, leading to lower relationship quality overall.
In addition to affecting romantic relationships, PTSD can impact body image and self-esteem. Some studies show that women veterans with PTSD are more likely to experience low self-esteem and poor body image compared to those without PTSD. This could make them feel less confident about their sexuality, leading to problems communicating needs and desires.
One study found that women with PTSD reported difficulty expressing their sexual preferences to their partner.
PTSD has been associated with a heightened fear of rejection, which could lead to difficulties initiating conversations about sex or asking for what they need.
PTSD may alter how veterans view relationships in general. One study found that veterans with high levels of PTSD symptoms were more likely to endorse a "relational schema" that emphasized security over intimacy. In other words, they focused on protecting themselves from emotional harm rather than forming close connections with others. This could manifest as avoidance behaviors, such as withdrawal from social situations or negative attitudes towards their partner.
This could erode trust and closeness within the relationship.
To support veterans' mental health and relational well-being, couples should practice open communication and patience. They should try to create a safe space where partners can discuss their feelings freely and seek professional help if necessary. It is also important for couples to engage in activities together that promote physical and emotional closeness, such as exercise or mindfulness practices.
It is critical to validate each other's experiences and be mindful of triggers that might exacerbate PTSD symptoms. With understanding and support, couples can build stronger relationships despite the challenges posed by chronic stress and trauma.
How do chronic feelings of threat experienced during deployment translate into long-term changes in sexual communication, body awareness, and relational expectations in veterans' romantic lives?
The effects of war on sexuality can be complicated and far-reaching. While some studies have shown that combat exposure may lead to higher levels of sex drive and arousal (Rosario et al. , 2013), others suggest that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with lowered libido and erectile dysfunction (Grohol, 2018).