In order to cope with traumatic events experienced during combat, many soldiers adopt an emotional withdrawal strategy that allows them to dissociate from their feelings and focus on survival.
This can lead to difficulties when they return home and are expected to express emotions and connect with loved ones. In this article, we will explore how soldiers navigate the tension between these two extremes.
It is important for soldiers to recognize that their emotional withdrawal is a coping mechanism that helps them stay alive while on the battlefield. They may have learned to detach themselves emotionally from the horrors of war in order to maintain composure under pressure. This can be seen as selfless sacrifice for the greater good and should not be judged harshly.
Soldiers must also understand that their loved ones back home need them to show up emotionally. Spouses, children, friends, and family members crave connection and intimacy, which can be challenging if a soldier has been through a traumatic experience. It takes time and effort to reconnect emotionally after a difficult deployment.
There are practical steps that soldiers can take to bridge the gap between emotional withdrawal and presence at home. One way is to practice mindfulness exercises such as meditation or deep breathing techniques before interacting with loved ones. This can help regulate emotions and create space for vulnerability. Another way is to seek professional support such as counseling or therapy to process the trauma and work through emotional blockages.
It is crucial for soldiers to communicate openly and honestly with their partners about what they need during this transition period. This might include setting boundaries around physical touch, sharing feelings without judgment, and being patient with each other's emotional needs.
Soldiers face a unique challenge when returning home from combat: how to reconcile an emotional withdrawal strategy with the expected emotional presence of civilian life. By recognizing their coping mechanisms, seeking support, practicing mindfulness, and communicating effectively, they can navigate this tension and find balance in their relationships.
How do soldiers manage the tension between emotional withdrawal used for survival and the emotional presence expected at home?
Soldiers often experience an internal conflict between their need for emotional detachment during combat and their desire to express emotion with family members back home. This can be challenging because they may feel pressured to suppress certain feelings to protect themselves from dangerous situations while also wanting to communicate affection and love with loved ones.