Relational Suppression and Stress Among Deployed Soldiers Can Have Long-Term Psychological Consequences
Soldiers have an important job to do: protecting their country from harm. In order to be effective, they must maintain emotional strength and resilience under high levels of stress and pressure.
This can sometimes come at a cost. Relational suppression and stress are two factors that can negatively impact mental health in the long term. This article will explore these issues further, highlighting the psychological consequences for deployed soldiers who experience them.
What is relational suppression?
Relational suppression refers to the act of suppressing one's feelings about relationships, particularly those related to romantic attraction and sexual desire. It involves holding back thoughts and emotions regarding relationships in order to focus solely on military tasks. This can lead to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and frustration.
If a soldier is attracted to someone but feels unable to express it due to the demands of deployment, they may feel like they are missing out on something important in life.
What is the effect of relational suppression?
Relational suppression has been shown to have negative effects on mental health in the long term. Studies have found that soldiers who engage in relational suppression tend to experience higher rates of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than those who do not. The longer the period of deployment lasts, the more severe these effects tend to become. This is likely because relational suppression creates a sense of emotional deprivation, which can lead to increased feelings of hopelessness and helplessness over time.
When soldiers finally return home from deployment, they may find it difficult to reconnect with loved ones after months or even years apart, exacerbating their existing psychological problems.
What is the link between relational suppression and stress?
Stress is another factor that can impact the mental health of deployed soldiers. When under constant pressure and uncertainty, the body releases hormones that trigger a "fight or flight" response, causing physical and emotional reactions such as heightened alertness, heart rate, and tension.
This can take a toll on the nervous system, leading to chronic stress-related conditions such as hypertension, insomnia, and irritability. Relational suppression can worsen this situation by adding an additional layer of emotional strain to an already difficult situation. Soldiers who feel unable to express their romantic and sexual desires are at risk for developing symptoms of both PTSD and chronic stress simultaneously.
How can we address relational suppression and stress among deployed soldiers?
Addressing relational suppression and stress requires a multi-faceted approach. First, it's important for military leaders to recognize the role that relationships play in maintaining mental health during deployments. They should provide opportunities for soldiers to connect with one another in safe and supportive environments, where they can express themselves freely without fear of judgment. Secondly, families and friends back home can help by staying in touch regularly and offering emotional support whenever possible.
Individual therapy may be beneficial for soldiers struggling with relational suppression and/or chronic stress-related issues. By addressing these issues early on, we can help ensure that our brave men and women return from deployment feeling emotionally whole and well-adjusted.
Relational suppression and stress can have serious long-term psychological consequences for deployed soldiers. Recognizing and addressing these issues is critical for maintaining mental health and promoting resilience in the face of adversity. With proper care and support, deployed personnel can come back stronger than ever before, ready to tackle any challenge that comes their way.
What are the long-term psychological consequences of relational suppression and stress among deployed soldiers?
The long-term psychological consequences of relational suppression and stress among deployed soldiers can be devastating. Deployment is known to cause changes in cognition, behavior, and emotions that often persist after the soldier returns home from active duty. These changes can include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.