Soldiers' Emotional Dissonance Between Home And Safety
Soldiers are trained to suppress their emotions during combat situations so that they can perform their duties effectively.
This emotional suppression does not disappear once they return from battle. In fact, it may be even more challenging for them to deal with their feelings when they return home because they feel an emotional disconnect between the safety and security of being with loved ones again and the stress and trauma of war. This is known as emotional dissonance.
When soldiers return home from deployment, they often struggle to readjust to civilian life. They miss the camaraderie and sense of purpose they had while serving in the military, but they also face new challenges such as finding employment, dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and reintegrating into family life. The contrast between these two worlds can create a deep sense of confusion and unease, which is referred to as emotional dissonance.
One way that soldiers cope with emotional dissonance is by seeking out familiar and comfortable environments. They might spend time with other veterans or participate in activities that remind them of their service, such as hiking, hunting, or fishing. They may also find comfort in physical activity, such as running or weightlifting, which provides a sense of control and stability. Some soldiers turn to substances like alcohol or drugs to numb the pain and anxiety they feel, although this approach rarely works long-term.
Another common response to emotional dissonance is avoidance. Soldiers may try to distract themselves from the reality of their situation by burying themselves in work or spending all their free time with friends and family. This can help temporarily, but it does not address the underlying issues that are causing the dissonance. It's important for soldiers to seek professional help if they are struggling with emotional dissonance so that they can process their feelings in a healthy way.
Emotional dissonance is a complex issue that requires patience, understanding, and support. It is important for loved ones to be patient with returning soldiers and to provide a safe space for them to express their thoughts and feelings without judgment.
The goal is to help soldiers build a new normal that allows them to thrive in both military and civilian life.
How do soldiers make sense of emotional dissonance when home brings safety but not immediate comfort?
There are several ways in which soldiers can make sense of emotional dissonance between the feelings they experience upon returning from warfare and the apparent lack of comfort that they might initially encounter at home. One way is to consider that their newfound freedom may lead them to feel anxious about their future, as they have become accustomed to a life of structure and routine during deployment.