Soldiers experience many psychological changes during their time in combat, including trauma, stress, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and dissociation. These factors can significantly impact the way they perceive themselves and others in relation to intimacy and closeness. To rebuild intimate connections after returning home from war, soldiers must be aware of these changes and actively work towards healing them.
One common change that affects soldier's perception of intimacy is an altered sense of self. During combat, soldiers are exposed to extreme situations which may cause them to feel isolated from others. This feeling of alienation can extend into civilian life, making it difficult for soldiers to connect with family members who do not understand their experiences. They may also struggle with feelings of guilt or shame around their actions in battle, leading to difficulties opening up emotionally.
Another factor that can influence a soldier's ability to form intimate relationships is dissociation. Dissociation is a mental state where a person feels detached from reality, often experienced as a coping mechanism for intense emotions like fear or pain. Soldiers may experience dissociative episodes while fighting on the front lines or afterwards as a result of PTSD. This can make it hard for them to fully engage in close interactions with loved ones due to feelings of numbness or emotional distance.
Even when soldiers have overcome psychological challenges related to warfare, there are still physical barriers that can interfere with forming close bonds. Many soldiers develop injuries during service which require medical treatment and sometimes prevent them from being sexually active. Injuries such as traumatic brain injury (TBI) or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can also impact sexual function, reducing libido and arousal.
To reconstruct intimacy after war, it is important for soldiers to seek professional help for any lingering mental health issues. Therapy can provide a safe space for soldiers to process their trauma and work towards healing, allowing them to establish stronger emotional connections with those around them. It is also crucial for couples to communicate openly about their needs and expectations before getting back into an intimate relationship. This includes discussing topics such as sexuality and boundaries so they can find common ground for expressing themselves physically and emotionally.
Rebuilding intimacy requires effort on both sides - individuals must be willing to acknowledge changes caused by war and take steps towards recovery, while partners must be patient and understanding in helping them achieve this goal. With care and support, soldiers can learn how to form deeper connections with others again after experiencing extreme stress and isolation during military service.
How do soldiers reconstruct intimacy when personal identity and emotional capacities are altered by war?
When soldiers return from war, they may struggle with their sense of self and relationships due to changes in their physical and mental health, traumatic experiences, and new social roles. Reconstructing intimacy can be challenging as they try to navigate these changes and reconnect with loved ones who have not experienced similar trauma. They might feel disconnected, anxious, depressed, guilty, or numb, which affects their ability to express affection or share vulnerability.