Soldiers are trained to suppress their emotions during combat operations to maintain focus and control. This training can make it difficult to express intimate feelings towards loved ones when they return home from deployment.
There are ways that soldiers can learn how to balance these opposing forces in order to meet their emotional and intimacy needs without compromising their duty.
One way is to practice mindfulness techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or visualization before reconnecting with loved ones. These activities help them become more aware of their thoughts and emotions and can provide them with tools for regulating their responses. Another option is to seek professional support from a therapist who specializes in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other mental health issues related to military service.
Couples counseling may also be beneficial for veterans struggling with intimacy issues. Therapists can help partners understand the unique challenges faced by returning service members and work together to create a safe space where they can open up about their experiences without fear of judgment or shame. For some couples, this means setting boundaries around sensitive topics like discussing war stories or dealing with triggers that arise during physical contact. Others find it helpful to establish rituals or routines that promote connection outside of sex, such as sharing meals or going for walks together regularly.
It's important for both parties involved in any relationship to communicate openly about expectations around intimacy after deployment. This may involve having honest conversations about what each person needs emotionally and physically in order to feel close again.
Reconciling operational suppression with intimate needs requires patience, compassion, and understanding on all sides - but with effort and commitment from both parties involved, soldiers can learn how to balance these opposing forces successfully over time.
How do soldiers reconcile emotional suppression for operational purposes with intimacy needs?
Soldiers may experience difficulty reconciling their need for emotional connection and closeness with their need to suppress emotions during combat operations. This challenge can be particularly challenging for those who have developed strong relationships before being deployed and must navigate the transition back into civilian life. The process of reintegrating after deployment can be emotionally taxing as they adjust to civilian life, family dynamics, and social norms while still processing the trauma of war.