A study published in the Journal of Traumatic Stress revealed that military veterans' experiences with combat, violence, warfare, and trauma affect their psychological wellbeing, including their sexual functioning. Veterans who have experienced PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) show difficulty expressing emotions, difficulty connecting with others, sleep disturbances, increased anxiety, and depression. It is challenging for them to reconstruct trust, intimacy, and sexual scripts following trauma-related disruptions. In addition, they may experience hyperarousal symptoms, such as startle responses, irritability, anger outbursts, difficulty concentrating, and intrusive memories associated with past traumas. Thus, they struggle to build healthy relationships and maintain an active sex life. To overcome these issues, veterans need individualized treatment plans tailored to address the impact of trauma on their lives. These treatments include cognitive-behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
The study also found that veterans' self-esteem, body image, and sexual desire are negatively affected by traumatic events. Veterans report feeling less confident about themselves, their bodies, and their ability to perform sexually due to trauma-induced fear and shame. They also suffer from changes in sexual scripts, such as loss of interest in sex, loss of arousal during intercourse, or difficulty reaching orgasm. As a result, it is essential for both partners involved in a relationship to communicate openly about their needs and desires to achieve mutual satisfaction in bed. The article discussed how veterans can rebuild trust and sexual scripts after experiencing trauma-related disruptions.
Veterans must acknowledge the effects of trauma on their sexual functioning and seek professional help to work through them. Therapists can provide support, guidance, and practical solutions to manage PTSD symptoms and improve intimacy. Secondly, couples should engage in intimate activities outside of the bedroom, including communication exercises, date nights, massages, and cuddling. Thirdly, veterans may explore new forms of pleasure and connection beyond traditional sexual acts to restore confidence and enthusiasm. This could include sensory experiences like touch, smell, taste, sound, sight, and movement. Fourthly, setting boundaries and expectations helps veterans feel safe and comfortable with their partner.
Veterans can develop healthy coping mechanisms for managing stress and anxiety, such as mindfulness practices, exercise, meditation, and deep breathing techniques.
In what ways do veterans reconstruct trust and sexual scripts following trauma-related disruptions?
While there are many variables that can influence how veterans reconstruct their trust and sexual scripts following trauma-related disruptions, some common strategies may include seeking professional mental health support, engaging in new activities or hobbies, prioritizing self-care practices, building strong social networks, and focusing on communication with partners.