Soldiers are trained to be tough, resilient, and to maintain strict boundaries between themselves and others. This is necessary in order to survive in combat situations where they must remain focused, alert, and prepared to defend their lives and those around them.
When they return home from deployment, many soldiers find it difficult to reconnect with loved ones who may have been left behind. In this article, we will explore how soldiers can reconcile emotional self-containment developed during deployment with the need for intimacy and openness at home.
Soldiers should recognize that their experiences in war have affected them deeply and that it takes time to process these feelings. They may feel numb, detached, or unable to express their emotions fully. It's important to take small steps towards opening up slowly. This could involve talking about daily activities, sharing memories or dreams, or engaging in physical contact such as hugging or cuddling.
Soldiers should communicate clearly and honestly with their partners about what they need emotionally. This may include setting boundaries and limits on communication or asking for space when needed. Soldiers should also consider therapy or counseling if they are struggling to cope with trauma or PTSD.
Soldiers should avoid using alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with their emotions. These substances can interfere with relationships and exacerbate existing issues. Instead, seek healthy outlets like exercise, meditation, or creative pursuits.
Fourth, soldiers should prioritize quality time together without distractions like phones or TV. This allows couples to connect more meaningfully and build stronger bonds.
Soldiers must be patient with themselves and each other. Reconciling emotional self-containment with intimacy is not an easy task but requires effort and commitment from both partners. With time and patience, however, soldiers can learn to trust again and deepen their connections with loved ones.
How do soldiers reconcile emotional self-containment developed during deployment with the need for intimacy and openness at home?
Most soldiers struggle to reconcile their experience of emotional detachment and self-reliance while deployed with the need to be more emotionally available in their personal relationships after returning home. The military has long encouraged a "warrior mindset" that emphasizes self-control, discipline, and keeping one's emotions under control even when facing trauma or adversity.