Veterans returning from deployment often experience a range of challenges that can impact their mental health and wellbeing. One common issue is difficulty adjusting to civilian life, which can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. This can also manifest itself in sexual and relationship difficulties, such as changes in libido, intimacy issues, and difficulty forming new romantic partnerships.
Many veterans may be hesitant to seek help for these problems due to psychological barriers that prevent them from doing so.
Veterans may feel embarrassment or shame about discussing sensitive topics like sex or relationships with strangers. They may worry that seeking help will make them appear weak or vulnerable.
They may have negative attitudes towards mental health professionals, believing that they won't understand or empathize with their unique experiences. These fears can create a sense of discomfort and mistrust, making it difficult to open up fully during therapy sessions.
Some veterans may struggle with trust issues related to their military service. They may question whether they can truly confide in anyone outside of their immediate family or close friends, especially if they experienced betrayal or trauma while serving. Trusting another person enough to share personal details about one's sex life or relationships can be incredibly difficult when this fear is present.
There is a cultural stigma associated with seeking help for psychological needs, particularly among male veterans. Many men believe that they should be self-reliant and strong, without needing assistance from others. This attitude can translate into reluctance to address issues like depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which often manifest as sexual dysfunction. It can also lead to feelings of guilt or shame around seeking treatment for any aspect of one's wellbeing.
Many veterans face practical challenges in accessing care.
Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers may not offer comprehensive services related to sex and intimacy, so veterans may have to seek out private providers who specialize in these areas. This can involve financial barriers, such as copays or insurance coverage, which can prevent them from receiving the support they need.
There may be geographic limitations on where services are available, making it difficult to find a suitable provider near their home.
Veterans may feel a sense of detachment from civilian society, leading them to avoid seeking help altogether. After experiencing war and conflict abroad, it can be challenging to relate to people who haven't shared those experiences. Feelings of isolation and loneliness can contribute to further difficulties with intimacy and connection, creating an additional hurdle to seeking help.
Psychological barriers can create significant obstacles for veterans trying to access care for sexual and relationship issues. By recognizing these factors and working to overcome them, we can provide more effective support to this population and improve their overall quality of life.
What psychological barriers prevent veterans from seeking help for sexual or relational difficulties post-deployment?
There are several psychological barriers that can make it difficult for veterans to seek help for sexual or relationship issues after deployment. These include shame, embarrassment, stigma, fear of judgment, cultural beliefs about masculinity, and lack of access to appropriate resources. Additionally, some veterans may have experienced traumatic events during their service that have caused them to feel disconnected from others or unworthy of love and support.