Sexuality is an integral part of human life that can be used for different purposes. For some people, it becomes a way to cope with difficult emotions such as grief, trauma, or loss. Soldiers are particularly prone to these feelings due to their job. Their work involves constant risk, danger, and stress. They may have experienced horrific scenes and events that can leave deep marks on their psyche. Sexual activity can help them deal with those negative experiences.
We will explore how soldiers use sexual activity to cope with grief, trauma, or loss. We will discuss the psychological mechanisms behind this coping strategy, its benefits and drawbacks, and possible alternatives.
Psychologically, sexual activity provides temporary relief from painful emotions. It releases hormones like dopamine and oxytocin that make us feel good. Dopamine helps us feel happy and motivated while oxytocin promotes bonding and intimacy. This makes sexual activity pleasurable and relaxing. By engaging in it, soldiers can temporarily forget about their problems and enjoy themselves.
Sex becomes a way to distract themselves from negative thoughts and feelings. It allows them to escape reality and focus on something else.
This does not solve the root cause of their issues. Eventually, they must confront their traumatic memories and process them emotionally. Otherwise, they may develop mental health problems such as depression or PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).
Another benefit of using sexual activity to cope is that it can provide a sense of control over one's life. In combat situations, soldiers often feel powerless and helpless. They may feel like there is nothing they can do to prevent bad things from happening. Engaging in sexual activity gives them a sense of agency and autonomy. They can choose when, where, and how to have sex, which can boost their confidence and self-esteem.
Relying solely on sexual activity as a coping mechanism has some downsides.
It can lead to addiction and compulsive behavior. Soldiers who use sex as an escape may become dependent on it and need more and more of it to feel better. This can damage relationships and create tension within families.
Some people may experience guilt or shame after having sex. They may feel guilty for using sex for non-intimate purposes or regret their actions later on. This can make them feel worse about themselves and exacerbate their existing emotional problems.
Soldiers can seek professional help for their grief, trauma, or loss. Therapy and counseling can address the underlying causes of these feelings and teach effective coping strategies. They can also participate in support groups with other veterans who understand what they are going through. These alternatives provide long-term solutions that can improve overall wellbeing and prevent further harm.
Sexual activity can be a way for soldiers to cope with negative emotions such as grief, trauma, or loss.
This strategy should not replace professional treatment or alternative coping mechanisms. It is essential to seek help if needed and explore healthier ways to manage one's mental health.
In what ways do soldiers use sexual activity to cope with grief, trauma, or loss?
Some researchers suggest that sexual intercourse can be a coping mechanism for soldiers who experience grief, trauma, or loss (e. g. , Pennebaker & Beall, 1986; Bensley et al. , 2017). This is because engaging in sex can distract people from negative feelings associated with these experiences and provide them with a sense of pleasure and relief.