When it comes to intimate relationships and their sexual components, such as hugging, kissing, holding hands, cuddling, and making love, veterans who have experienced traumatic events often struggle due to heightened sensory perception and impaired touch sensitivity. This can lead to difficulties in expressing affection, physical discomfort during intercourse, and even PTSD symptoms triggered by certain types of stimulation.
There are ways that veterans can manage this issue and work through it in order to maintain healthy relationships and reconnect with themselves.
Physical effects
Trauma survivors may experience increased sensitivity to touch, particularly when it relates to specific areas of the body associated with the trauma.
If they were physically assaulted, they may be hyper-aware of being touched in those areas. As a result, they may feel uncomfortable or anxious when someone tries to initiate intimacy or simply hold them close. In addition, they may find it difficult to relax and open up emotionally, leading to emotional distance from their partner. This can cause feelings of isolation, depression, and anxiety, which further complicates matters.
Psychological effects
The impact of trauma is not limited to physical sensations but also extends to psychological processes. Veterans who suffer from PTSD may struggle with trust issues, flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts that make it hard for them to let go and connect with others on an emotional level. They may feel like they need to constantly protect themselves or guard against potential threats, making it challenging to form strong bonds with loved ones. It's important to acknowledge these struggles and support the veteran as much as possible.
Self-care strategies
There are several self-care strategies that veterans can employ to address the sexual and emotional effects of trauma. These include communication with partners about their needs, practicing mindfulness exercises, engaging in regular exercise, seeking professional help, and focusing on developing new skills such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga.
Finding healthy outlets for expression, such as art therapy, writing, or music, can help ease tension and promote healing. With time and patience, veterans can learn how to manage their triggers and rebuild their relationship with a sense of comfort and security.
In what ways do trauma-induced changes in touch sensitivity affect veterans' sexual experiences and emotional closeness?
Trauma can lead to an increased sensation of being touched, which may cause discomfort or anxiety during intimacy. This may negatively impact veterans' ability to establish emotional closeness with their partners. Additionally, some veterans may develop avoidance behaviors such as withdrawing from physical contact, which may further diminish emotional connection.