Soldiers are trained to be tough and strong, but they also face challenges that can affect their mental health and well-being after returning home from combat. One such challenge is rebuilding emotional attunement with family members, friends, and partners. Combat survival strategies often involve avoiding vulnerability and suppressing emotions.
This can lead to difficulties with trust, intimacy, and communication. This article will explore how soldiers can overcome these challenges through therapy, support groups, mindfulness practices, and self-care techniques.
Therapy
Therapy can help soldiers develop coping skills for processing trauma and reconnecting with loved ones. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) teaches soldiers to recognize negative thoughts and behaviors and replace them with positive ones. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) helps process traumatic memories and reduce anxiety. Family Therapy provides a safe space to discuss concerns and work towards better communication. Group Therapy offers camaraderie and shared experiences with others who understand military life.
Support Groups
Support groups provide a community of understanding and empathy. They offer opportunities to share stories, express feelings, and build relationships.
Veterans Affairs' PTSD Coach Online app connects users with veterans experiencing similar challenges. Soldier Project provides free counseling services nationwide. Wounded Warrior Project offers programs like Warriors in Motion and Project Odyssey to promote physical and mental wellness.
Mindfulness Practices
Mindfulness practices like meditation and yoga can improve focus, relaxation, and stress management. These practices encourage being present in the moment and accepting difficult emotions without judgment. Apps like Calm and Headspace offer guided meditations and breathing exercises. Physical activity like running or weightlifting can also release endorphins and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Self-Care Techniques
Self-care techniques include getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, staying hydrated, practicing self-compassion, and seeking professional help when needed. Taking breaks from social media and news sources can reduce stress and enhance mental clarity. Exploring hobbies or interests outside of combat survival strategies can bring joy and purpose. Regular check-ups with doctors and therapists can monitor mental health progress.
Rebuilding emotional attunement takes time, patience, and effort.
With support and resources, soldiers can overcome challenges and build strong connections with loved ones. By using these methods, soldiers can develop coping skills for processing trauma, regain trust and intimacy, and enjoy a fulfilling life after military service.
How do soldiers rebuild emotional attunement when combat survival strategies conditioned avoidance of vulnerability?
Combat experience is known to cause a range of mental health issues such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and suicide, which affects not only individuals but also their families and communities. Soldiers who engage in combat situations develop various coping mechanisms, including detachment, numbing, and avoidance of intimacy, to ensure their safety and survival.