The ability to share and create emotional experiences together is an essential aspect of human interaction, and it can be especially challenging for soldiers who have been through traumatic events during combat. When someone has experienced extreme stress or trauma, they may become less able to connect emotionally with others and express themselves openly. This effect on emotional connection can also extend to romantic partnerships and make them more difficult.
There are ways that soldiers can work towards rebuilding this bond and co-creating meaningful connections with their partners.
It's crucial to understand why soldiers struggle to communicate and connect emotionally after experiencing trauma. Soldiers often feel disconnected from those around them due to their unique experiences and struggles. They may have difficulty trusting others and opening up about what they've been through, which makes intimacy challenging.
Many soldiers experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which causes symptoms like anxiety, depression, nightmares, flashbacks, and hypervigilance - all of which impact their relationships with others. These factors create barriers between soldiers and their partners and prevent them from creating relational meaning together.
There are steps couples can take to overcome these obstacles. One way is by practicing active listening skills. Active listening means being present and engaged in the conversation without judgment or distraction. It involves listening carefully to your partner's words, asking questions for clarification, and reflecting back what you heard. By doing this, both partners can feel seen and understood, allowing for deeper communication and connection. Another strategy is sharing stories of past experiences and emotions - especially ones related to combat. Sharing vulnerably allows both partners to relate to each other on a level deeper than just surface conversations.
Setting aside time for physical intimacy is essential for building relational meaning. Physical touch releases oxytocin, a hormone that promotes feelings of closeness and bonding.
Soldiers returning home must relearn how to express themselves and connect emotionally with their partners.
With patience, openness, and effort, it is possible for couples to co-create meaningful connections despite these challenges. By prioritizing intimacy and practice active listening, soldiers can build strong bonds with their partners and heal from trauma together.
How does a soldier's altered emotional landscape affect their ability to co-create relational meaning with their partner?
The emotional landscape of a soldier is shaped by their experiences on the battlefield, which can lead to changes in mood, behavior, and relationships. When soldiers return home from deployment, they may struggle to communicate effectively with loved ones who are unfamiliar with the traumas they have experienced. This can create feelings of isolation and misunderstanding, which can be especially difficult for partners who want to support but don't know how.