Soldiers experience an array of challenging emotions while deployed. These include fear, stress, anxiety, loneliness, homesickness, boredom, fatigue, and even excitement.
Their primary job is to serve and protect their country through combat. This often means putting aside personal feelings and desires for mission success. In this article, I'll explore how soldiers can manage these conflicting needs and stay physically and mentally healthy.
Soldiers may find it difficult to express their emotions due to cultural norms or peer pressure. They might also feel guilty about missing out on important events back home like birthdays or anniversaries. To cope, they must learn to communicate openly and honestly with family members and friends. Some ways include texting regularly, sharing photos, setting up video chats, and scheduling phone calls during downtime.
Soldiers should have access to mental health professionals who can help them process intense experiences.
Soldiers also need time to decompress after long days in the field. This could involve exercise, meditation, journaling, or talking to fellow soldiers. Taking care of one's physical and psychological well-being is crucial for maintaining focus and resilience. It helps prevent burnout, which can lead to reduced performance and increased risk-taking behaviors. Therefore, leaders should encourage rest breaks and promote self-care practices among their teams.
When necessary, soldiers may seek support from chaplains or counselors. These individuals provide confidential guidance on spiritual or mental concerns while helping soldiers connect with loved ones. They can offer insights into faith-based coping strategies, such as prayer or scripture reading. Chaplains also facilitate fun activities like sports games or movie nights to alleviate boredom.
Combat stress can manifest as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or other conditions requiring professional treatment. Soldiers should never hesitate to seek medical advice if they experience severe symptoms like excessive worry, flashbacks, or suicidal thoughts. Early intervention prevents further harm and supports overall readiness.
How do soldiers manage emotional needs when they feel pressured to prioritize mission-related responsibilities?
The military is known for its strict code of conduct that emphasizes discipline, obedience, and following orders without question. This rigid structure can be challenging for individuals who struggle with emotions because it requires them to suppress their feelings and focus on completing tasks. As such, soldiers must find ways to cope with these conflicting demands while remaining mentally stable and emotionally healthy.