Due to extreme stress and traumatic events experienced during combat, military personnel may experience distressing physical and mental symptoms such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, and flashbacks that can interfere with their ability to perform duties and lead to negative behavioral patterns. To recover from this, they often seek refuge in close relationships.
The process of reintegration requires time and effort, but soldiers are encouraged to share their experiences with loved ones in order to cope better. This is because the act of sharing allows them to express emotions and gain support without judgment.
Being intimate with family members provides an opportunity for closeness and comfort that helps alleviate tension caused by PTSD.
Intimacy between couples can also be achieved through various activities like cuddling, kissing, hugging, and sexual intercourse. These acts can help improve communication skills while reducing fear and anxiety levels. Sexual activity in particular has been found to lower heart rate and blood pressure which reduces cortisol production and enhances relaxation. It also releases oxytocin, a neurotransmitter associated with social bonding, trust, and pleasure.
Although there are numerous benefits of engaging in intimate relationships, some military spouses have expressed concerns about the impact of their partner's trauma on their own well-being.
One study shows that female partners report higher rates of depressive symptoms when their husbands display aggressive or violent behaviors towards them after returning home from deployment.
Other studies suggest that if both parties understand each other's needs and communicate effectively, sex may even strengthen bonds between couples.
Soldiers who experience psychological trauma during war should prioritize establishing and maintaining healthy relationships with others to promote healing and prevent further deterioration. Through consistent physical contact and open discussions about personal challenges, individuals can build resilience against negative thoughts and behaviors associated with PTSD.
In what ways do soldiers use intimacy as a form of psychological restoration after trauma?
Intimacy can play an important role in helping soldiers recover from traumatic experiences by providing them with a sense of connection, support, and comfort. By forming close relationships with others, soldiers can share their experiences and emotions, which can help them process and make sense of their trauma. Additionally, intimate relationships can provide soldiers with a sense of purpose and meaning, helping them feel more connected to society and less isolated.