A military service member's experience is full of intense physical and emotional challenges, such as injury, death, anxiety, depression, fear, sleep disturbances, and relationship difficulties. Military sexual trauma (MST) occurs when someone is raped or sexually assaulted while serving in the military. MST can be devastating because it involves betrayal from trusted peers, violation of personal space, and an attack on one's masculinity/femininity. Traumatic events may cause avoidance of all things related to sex, including people, thoughts, feelings, sensations, situations, and activities.
Successful reintegration into society requires erotic and affectionate interactions.
There are several strategies for helping veterans overcome the fear of sexual stimuli and intimate contact after experiencing MST. Some strategies are psychological, while others are behavioral. The most effective approach is based on individual needs and circumstances. Psychological strategies include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, mindfulness meditation, relaxation exercises, and support groups. CBT helps identify unhelpful thought patterns and replace them with healthy ones, which reduces anxiety about touching partners and exploring new techniques. Exposure therapy gradually exposes vets to feared triggers like kissing, cuddling, caressing, and intercourse until they desensitize their anxiety. Mindfulness meditation increases self-awareness and control over body sensations during sexual activity. Relaxation exercises calm the nervous system before sexual encounters. Support groups allow vets to share experiences with other survivors and learn ways to connect emotionally and physically again. Behavioral strategies include masturbation, pornography use, and partnered sexual activities like kissing, massage, foreplay, and intercourse. Veterans can experiment alone or with a trusted partner to build confidence and comfort in different types of sexual behaviors. With time and practice, vets may feel less apprehensive around sex and more comfortable expressing themselves and receiving pleasure.
The journey to reengagement with erotic and affectionate sexual experiences can be difficult but rewarding for both veterans and their partners. Trauma affects everyone differently, so it's essential to take things slowly and avoid pushing too hard too quickly. It may help to start with small steps like handholding or embracing before moving on to more intimate acts. Open communication between partners is crucial to addressing fears and preferences. Veterans should seek professional treatment if symptoms persist beyond 2 months or interfere with daily life.
Recovery from MST requires compassion, patience, support, and willingness to work through challenges together.
What strategies help veterans re-engage with erotic and affectionate sexual experiences after trauma-induced avoidance?
Re-establishing intimacy and engaging in erotic and affectionate sexual experiences may be a challenge for veterans who have experienced trauma during their service time. It is essential to remember that there are no one-size-fits-all solutions, but it is possible to overcome this obstacle through several effective methods. One strategy is to talk openly about your needs and expectations within the relationship before initiating any sexual activity.