Soldiers are exposed to extreme mental and physical challenges during their service. They undergo rigorous training that puts them under immense pressure and stress both physically and mentally. In addition, they face various dangers and life-threatening situations while serving in different countries. As a result, they may suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and suicide. This paper explores how soldiers internalize institutional silence regarding personal well-being and why it is necessary for institutions to acknowledge this issue. It also discusses how soldiers can overcome the stigma associated with seeking help for their mental health issues.
Institutional silence regarding personal well-being refers to the culture of silence within military organizations about personal problems such as sexuality, eroticism, intimacy, and relationships. Military members often feel ashamed or embarrassed about sharing these topics because they are seen as weaknesses or taboo subjects. As a result, they suffer silently without receiving support or counseling for their emotional needs. The cultural norm of "toughness" creates an environment where expressing vulnerability is discouraged and asking for help is frowned upon.
Soldiers who ignore their psychological and emotional needs can experience adverse effects on their health and well-being.
PTSD, anxiety, and depression can lead to alcohol and drug addiction, domestic violence, self-harm, and even suicide.
Seeking help for these conditions is still viewed negatively by many soldiers, commanders, and peers. Soldiers must overcome this stigma if they want to receive treatment for their mental illness.
Military members may fear that admitting to mental health issues will affect their career advancement or job security. They may worry that their unit will see them as incapable of performing their duties effectively due to their condition. This belief perpetuates the cycle of institutional silence and prevents soldiers from getting the help they need.
To address this issue, military institutions should provide soldiers with safe spaces to discuss personal matters openly. Leaders and peers should create an atmosphere where seeking help is encouraged and not shamed. Institutions should also implement policies that promote early intervention and prevention of mental health problems among their members.
Therapy sessions should be made available to all soldiers regardless of rank or position within the organization.
Institutional silence regarding personal well-being is a significant problem facing soldiers today. By acknowledging and addressing this issue, military organizations can improve the overall well-being of their members and reduce the stigma associated with seeking help for mental health concerns.
How do soldiers internalize institutional silence regarding personal well-being?
Soldiers often internalize institutional silence surrounding their mental health by repressing their feelings and experiences through various coping strategies such as humor, rationalization, denial, or substance abuse. This can lead to a sense of isolation and disconnection from others who may not fully understand what they have been through. As a result, many soldiers experience difficulty adjusting to civilian life after leaving military service due to unaddressed trauma and stress related issues.