Intimate relationships are essential for human development and wellbeing. Humans need both physical and emotional closeness to grow healthy and happy. When there is no such intimacy, individuals may suffer profound mental and social discomfort. This is especially true when intimate partners are forced apart by war, conflict, or service in the military. During deployment, soldiers face many challenges that can lead to long-term psychological consequences. One of the most damaging effects of military separation is broken intimacy between spouses. Couples have difficulty maintaining their relationship without regular contact and support. This lack of closeness can cause deep anxiety, depression, stress, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms.
I will explore how interrupted sex and intimacy during military deployment can affect couples' mental health. I will also discuss some possible solutions to mitigate these problems and help those who are struggling. Let's start by examining the impact of sexual deprivation during deployment.
When deployed, soldiers often spend long periods away from home. While they may receive limited communication from loved ones, they cannot share physical affection with them. This can be a significant challenge for couples who rely on touch and closeness to express love and support each other. Sexual interaction is an important part of any relationship. Without it, couples may feel distant, lonely, and unloved. Studies show that sexless marriages increase the risk of divorce and infidelity. Therefore, extended periods of abstinence in a marriage can have severe repercussions.
Sexual isolation causes several changes within the body and brain. The hormone oxytocin, known as "the love drug," decreases during prolonged sexual abstinence. Oxytocin helps regulate mood, emotion, and bonding. It also increases feelings of trust, security, and attachment. When soldiers don't release oxytocin regularly, they may experience lower self-esteem, irritability, and difficulty connecting with their partners. Another hormone affected by sexual contact is testosterone. Testosterone levels drop when soldiers do not engage in regular intercourse. Low testosterone levels can cause fatigue, low libido, and muscle loss.
Sex releases endorphins that reduce pain, stress, and anxiety. Without this release, military members may struggle with depression or PTSD symptoms like flashbacks and nightmares.
Emotional intimacy also suffers due to deployment. Couples often rely on daily routines to maintain their connection. These habits help create predictability and stability in relationships.
Separation disrupts these patterns, making spouses feel isolated and alone. Long-distance communication through text or video chat can help mitigate some of these effects but cannot replace physical closeness. Even if couples talk every day, emotional distance still exists between them. This lack of familiarity can lead to misunderstandings and arguments. Military spouses must learn new ways to communicate and support each other without physical contact.
Many studies have explored how military deployment impacts mental health outcomes. One study found that soldiers who were separated from their families for longer than 12 months experienced higher rates of PTSD and depression. Another study showed that prolonged separation caused marital dissatisfaction and reduced relationship quality. Other research has shown that the return home can be challenging, as couples adjust to reconnecting after long periods apart. They may face tension and conflict over how much time they spend together versus alone. Some individuals even report feeling distant or estranged from their partners despite being back under the same roof.
To address these issues, couples must prioritize communication during deployment. They should schedule regular calls and emails to discuss their feelings, hopes, and fears. It is also important to set realistic expectations about the future and plan for possible obstacles. After the deployment ends, it may take time to build a new routine and reestablish trust. Couples can seek professional counseling to work through these challenges and improve their intimacy.
Sexual and emotional isolation due to military service can cause long-term psychological harm. Soldiers who do not receive adequate support may suffer from depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms. By communicating openly and seeking help when needed, couples can mitigate these effects and maintain a strong bond with their partners.
What long-term psychological consequences arise from interrupted sexual or emotional intimacy in military contexts?
In military contexts, interruptions of sexual or emotional intimacy can have significant long-term psychological consequences for individuals. One of the most common effects is an increase in stress levels, which can lead to physical health problems such as high blood pressure and heart disease. Additionally, prolonged periods away from loved ones can cause feelings of isolation, loneliness, and depression.