Sexual support is an essential element for the wellbeing of military personnel. It provides them with the necessary tools to cope with the challenges they face during times of conflict and helps maintain their physical and mental health. Research has shown that military personnel who receive adequate sexual support are less likely to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental illnesses related to trauma exposure.
It can help improve psychosexual health, which refers to the ability to engage in satisfying sexual activity without fear of repercussions. In this article, we will discuss how sexual support facilitates relational trust, psychosexual health, and emotional regulation under combat stress.
Relational Trust
Relational trust is a crucial aspect of any relationship, especially among military personnel. Military couples require mutual respect and trust to maintain their relationships despite the demands of their job. When military members feel secure and supported emotionally, sexually, and physically, they are more likely to develop a deeper sense of trust with their partners. This can be achieved through open communication and honesty about sexual needs and desires. Sexuality plays a critical role in establishing intimacy and closeness between couples, making it easier to build a solid foundation of trust.
Psychosexual Health
Military personnel often experience various physical and emotional changes due to high levels of stress during combat situations. Sexual support helps them manage these changes by providing information on safe and effective ways to express themselves sexually. When military members have access to reliable resources for sexual education and advice, they are better equipped to handle the challenges of combat stress.
They may learn techniques for overcoming erectile dysfunction or vaginismus caused by stress hormones such as cortisol or adrenaline. They can also find out about contraception options that fit their lifestyle and preferences. These resources help prevent unplanned pregnancies, STIs, and other health risks associated with unprotected sex.
Emotional Regulation
Sexual activity involves intense emotions, which can lead to uncontrolled behavior if left unchecked. Military members who receive adequate sexual support can regulate their emotions effectively, reducing the risk of violent or aggressive behaviors. The release of oxytocin during orgasmic experiences has been shown to promote feelings of calmness and relaxation, while endorphins released during foreplay can alleviate anxiety and depression symptoms.
Regular sexual encounters can increase the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and social bonding. Therefore, military members who engage in satisfying sexual activities are less likely to suffer from negative emotions like anger, frustration, or resentment.
Sexual support is essential for military personnel's wellbeing during times of conflict. It provides them with the necessary tools to manage physical and mental changes related to trauma exposure and helps maintain relational trust between partners. Sexual education and advice equip military members to make informed decisions about their sexuality, ensuring that they stay safe and healthy.
Sexual activity promotes positive emotions, allowing military members to cope better with stressful situations and improve their overall psychosexual health.
How does sexual support facilitate relational trust, psychosexual health, and emotional regulation under combat stress?
Sexual intimacy can play an important role in building and maintaining relational trust between partners, particularly during periods of high stress such as war or military conflict. In relationships where there is a mutual understanding that sex is not just a physical release but also a means of connection, communication, and vulnerability, it can help to strengthen emotional bonds and create a sense of security and stability even in unpredictable circumstances.