The Relationship Between Relational Support and Coping With Operational Trauma in LGBT Soldiers
There has been increasing attention to the unique experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) soldiers and their exposure to traumatic events during military operations. Research suggests that LGBT soldiers may experience greater levels of distress related to operational trauma due to discrimination and stigma associated with their identity. One factor that may contribute to improved coping with operational trauma is relational support from family members, friends, colleagues, or romantic partners. This article will explore how relational support can help LGBT soldiers cope with the stressors of operational trauma and provide recommendations for supporting these individuals.
LGBT Soldiers and Operational Trauma
LGBT soldiers are more likely to experience discrimination and stigma within the military than their heterosexual counterparts. This can lead to increased feelings of isolation, depression, and anxiety.
LGBT soldiers are more likely to be deployed to combat zones, where they may witness or experience violence and death. These factors can result in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a mental health condition characterized by intrusive memories, flashbacks, avoidance behaviors, and emotional numbing.
Relational Support and Coping
Studies have found that relational support can play an important role in helping people cope with traumatic events. Relational support includes social support from family members, friends, coworkers, and other significant others. This support can take many forms, such as listening, providing practical assistance, offering emotional validation, or engaging in fun activities together. When people receive this type of support, it can reduce symptoms of PTSD and improve overall wellbeing.
One study found that LGBT veterans who received relational support from their families reported lower levels of PTSD symptoms compared to those who did not receive this support. Another study found that social support was associated with improved coping strategies among LGBT servicemembers exposed to combat trauma.
Recommendations for Relational Support
If you know someone who is experiencing operational trauma, there are several ways to provide them with relational support:
1. Listen actively: Be present and attentive when your loved one is sharing their experiences. Avoid interrupting or offering quick solutions. Instead, reflect back what they are saying to show that you understand.
2. Provide practical assistance: Offer help with tasks like cooking, cleaning, or running errands. This can take some burden off the person's shoulders and make them feel cared for.
3. Offer emotional validation: Validate your loved one's feelings without judgment. Let them know that their experiences are valid and that you care about them.
4. Engage in enjoyable activities: Plan fun activities like hiking, going to a movie, or playing games together. These activities can provide a break from stressful situations and help build positive relationships.
Relational support is an important factor in helping LGBT soldiers cope with operational trauma. By providing active listening, practical assistance, emotional validation, and engaging in enjoyable activities, friends and family members can offer valuable support. If you know someone who has experienced operational trauma, consider how you can provide this type of support to help them heal and recover.
What is the relationship between relational support and coping with operational trauma in LGBT soldiers?
Relational support is important for LGBT soldiers who experience operational trauma as it helps them process their experiences and find meaning in their lives. Studies have shown that social support can help reduce stress and promote resilience among individuals who face adversity, which is particularly relevant for LGBT soldiers who may face discrimination and marginalization due to their sexual orientation.