In order for soldiers to maintain their mental health during prolonged deployments abroad, they must learn how to deal with emotional regression through various coping strategies. Regression is defined as a return to an earlier developmental stage, where an individual experiences feelings and behaviors that were common during childhood. This can include crying, temper tantrums, clinginess, and being irritable. It's important for military personnel to be aware of this phenomenon so they can identify and manage it appropriately.
Psychological Mechanisms
The psychological mechanisms behind emotional regression are due to prolonged periods away from family, friends, loved ones, and familiar surroundings. When deployed overseas, individuals may feel isolated, lonely, and disconnected from the world they once knew. They also face daily challenges such as dangerous situations, unpredictability, stressors, and trauma. All these factors can lead to emotional distress and create feelings of anxiety, depression, or PTSD. The body responds to stress by releasing hormones like cortisol and adrenaline which increase heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration. This "fight-or-flight" response helps them perform in high-pressure situations but can cause symptoms similar to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Emotional Reactions
Emotionally, individuals may experience difficulty expressing themselves or connecting with others. They may become more sensitive, impulsive, and emotionally needy. This can make communication difficult since their needs and expectations are different than those back home.
Someone who was independent before deployment might now crave constant attention from their partner. They may want to hold hands all the time or ask questions repeatedly about when they will return home. Their frustration level could rise quickly without an outlet for expression, leading to yelling or other aggressive behavior.
Coping Strategies
Soldiers can use various coping strategies during deployment to manage emotional regression. These include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, physical activity, journaling, talking with trusted friends/family members, seeking professional help if necessary, and engaging in meaningful activities such as reading books, playing games, writing letters etc. CBT helps identify negative thoughts and replace them with positive ones. Mindfulness meditation promotes relaxation through focusing on breathing and awareness of the present moment. Deep breathing exercises reduce anxiety by calming the nervous system. Journaling allows soldiers to process their feelings and get them out of their head onto paper. Talking with loved ones back home provides support and connection while engaging in physical activity releases endorphins that improve mood.
Engaging in meaningful activities distracts from stressors and creates a sense of purpose.
What psychological mechanisms lead to emotional regression during sustained periods of deployment?
Regression is defined as "a return to an earlier behavioral level or developmental stage. " During prolonged deployment, people may regress emotionally due to stressful conditions such as combat, cultural adjustment difficulties, separation from loved ones, and other factors. This can be explained through psychological theories that emphasize attachment, threat responses, and cognitive processing. Firstly, attachment theory suggests that individuals seek closeness with others for security and comfort, especially when faced with uncertainty or danger.