The ability to establish and sustain close interpersonal relationships is essential for human beings. It has been shown that strong social bonds help individuals cope better with challenges like trauma, chronic stress, and painful experiences. In military contexts where personnel are continuously subjected to high levels of pressure, having healthy relationships becomes even more critical to avoid mental health problems such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression. Soldiers can employ several strategies to maintain relational resilience under prolonged operational stress.
One strategy is actively seeking out and engaging with supportive friends and family members regularly. This includes initiating phone calls, sending emails, visiting loved ones, or sharing concerns and feelings. Another approach involves developing new friendships within the unit or the team. Building camaraderie through shared experiences like training sessions or combat missions helps soldiers feel connected and supported when facing difficulties together.
Joining a religious organization or participating in recreational activities like sports or hobbies provides an additional source of emotional support and social interaction.
A second method is practicing self-care by eating well, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and managing time effectively. Taking care of one's physical needs allows soldiers to remain physically and mentally fit, which makes it easier to form meaningful connections with others. Also, prioritizing rest and relaxation practices like meditation or yoga promotes calmness and reduces the risk of burnout or anxiety.
Cultivating a growth mindset - believing in personal development potential - encourages resilience by enabling individuals to overcome obstacles and challenge themselves constantly.
Implementing these three strategies can help soldiers build healthy relationships despite the demands of military service. By taking care of their bodies and minds while maintaining close bonds with others, they can strengthen their relational resilience and cope better with prolonged operational stress.
What strategies do soldiers employ to maintain relational resilience under prolonged operational stress?
Soldiers often engage in activities that help them cope with prolonged operational stress such as maintaining strong social relationships with family and friends, engaging in hobbies and leisure activities, developing positive coping mechanisms like meditation or exercise, practicing self-care techniques, cultivating a sense of purpose and meaning, seeking support from mental health professionals or spiritual advisors, and participating in team-building exercises or activities.