The military is an organization that requires members to suppress their emotions for the sake of mission accomplishment. Soldiers are trained to be stoic, disciplined, and objective, which often results in the development of habits of emotional suppression during operations. These habits can be challenging to break, especially when it comes to building and maintaining healthy interpersonal relationships with family, friends, and loved ones.
There are steps that soldiers can take to rebuild relational competence even after years of habitual emotional suppression.
Developing Healthy Communication Skills
One of the most important ways for soldiers to rebuild relational competence is to develop healthy communication skills. This includes learning how to listen actively, express feelings effectively, and communicate with empathy. Active listening involves paying attention to what others say without interrupting or formulating responses while they speak. Effective communication involves sharing thoughts, feelings, and opinions in a clear and concise manner. Empathy involves putting oneself in another person's shoes and understanding their perspective. By developing these communication skills, soldiers can create stronger bonds with those around them and improve their overall well-being.
Practicing Self-Care
Another way for soldiers to rebuild relational competence is by practicing self-care. Self-care involves taking time to care for one's physical, mental, and emotional needs. This can include exercise, meditation, therapy, and other activities that promote wellness. By prioritizing self-care, soldiers can reduce stress levels, increase resilience, and improve their ability to connect with others.
Engaging in activities such as journaling or writing letters can help soldiers process emotions and build intimacy with loved ones.
Seeking Support from Trusted Others
Soldiers should seek support from trusted individuals when rebuilding relational competence. This can involve reaching out to family members, friends, or counselors who are willing to provide unconditional love and support. Building relationships with individuals who understand the challenges of military life can also be helpful in navigating the transition back into civilian life. Soldiers should not hesitate to ask for help when needed, as this can lead to greater personal growth and improved relationships.
Soldiers who have developed habits of emotional suppression during operations must take intentional steps to rebuild relational competence. Developing healthy communication skills, practicing self-care, and seeking support from trusted others are all important strategies for building and maintaining strong interpersonal relationships. With time and effort, soldiers can overcome these challenges and create a fulfilling life both inside and outside the military.
How do soldiers rebuild relational competence when emotional suppression has become habitual in operational contexts?
When working in high-risk environments, soldiers may develop habits of emotional suppression as they prioritize mission success over personal wellbeing. Reestablishing interpersonal relationships can be challenging after such experiences due to unresolved trauma and PTSD symptoms, which can cause difficulties communicating with loved ones.