When soldiers return from war, they may experience physical, emotional, cognitive, social, psychological, and spiritual changes that can affect their lives and their relationships. Traumatic experiences such as witnessing death and injury, having near misses, seeing loved ones die, and experiencing violence themselves often lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and other mental health problems. These problems can make it difficult for veterans to engage in sex and maintain satisfying romantic relationships. This article explores how partners can adjust their expectations and sexual practices to accommodate trauma-related changes in veterans' functioning.
Partners may need to be patient and understanding when dealing with veterans who have difficulty communicating their needs and desires. They must also be willing to try new things and experiment with different forms of intimacy to find what works best for both parties.
Some veterans may benefit from gentle touches or slow movements during sexual activity, while others may prefer more intense stimulation. Partners should avoid judging or criticizing veterans for their reactions or behaviors, which could exacerbate feelings of guilt and shame.
Partners may need to accept that veterans may not always want to participate in certain activities. Some veterans may become detached or numb to pleasurable sensations due to PTSD symptoms such as hypervigilance, avoidance, and emotional numbing. Others may withdraw emotionally or physically due to a lack of trust or intimacy issues caused by past traumatic events. Partners must listen to veterans and respect their boundaries without pressuring them into doing anything they don't feel comfortable with.
When veterans experience flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive thoughts related to their military service, partners can help them calm down and regulate their breathing through deep breathing exercises or grounding techniques. This can make it easier for veterans to relax and enjoy sex again. Partners should avoid getting angry or upset if veterans suddenly end a sexual encounter abruptly, even if it causes disappointment. Instead, they should focus on supporting the veteran's healing process and helping them manage their symptoms.
Partners play an essential role in helping veterans cope with trauma-related changes in functioning. They can adjust their expectations and sexual practices to accommodate these changes and provide support during difficult times. By communicating openly and honestly with each other, partners can create a safe space for both parties to explore new ways of expressing love and affection.
In what ways do partners adjust expectations and sexual practices to accommodate trauma-related changes in veterans' functioning?
The adjustment of expectations and sexual practices may be necessary for a partner of a trauma survivor, as it can significantly affect their mental health and wellbeing. Traumatic experiences can cause individuals to develop negative beliefs about themselves, their bodies, and relationships that may impact intimacy and sexual behavior. It is essential for partners to understand these changes and provide support to help their loved one overcome them.