Soldiers who have experienced prolonged deployments or intense operational periods often face difficulties adjusting to life after returning home. These individuals may struggle with anxiety, depression, insomnia, substance abuse, and relationship issues that can result from the traumatic experiences they have encountered while serving their country. In order to rebuild emotional routines disrupted by their time away, soldiers must develop new ways of connecting with others and managing stressors that may arise during day-to-day interactions.
One way soldiers can begin this process is by seeking professional help through counseling services offered by organizations such as Veterans Affairs. Counseling allows soldiers to discuss their feelings and experiences in a safe space without judgment, which can be incredibly beneficial for those struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other mental health conditions related to deployment.
Attending group therapy sessions provides an opportunity for soldiers to connect with peers going through similar challenges and build supportive relationships outside of combat units.
In addition to seeking counseling, it is important for soldiers to engage in activities that allow them to relax and destress. This could include practicing yoga, meditation, or exercise regularly. Engaging in these activities helps reduce symptoms of PTSD and improves overall physical and mental wellbeing.
Spending time outdoors in nature has been shown to promote resilience and increase positive emotions.
Building strong relationships at home is crucial for maintaining emotional stability after long deployments or operational periods. Soldiers should prioritize spending quality time with family members and friends who understand their unique needs and provide consistent support throughout their recovery journey. Establishing a routine of regular communication via phone calls, video chats, or letters can also create a sense of connection when physical proximity isn't possible.
Rebuilding emotional routines disrupted by extended deployments requires active participation from both the soldier and loved ones. By working together towards shared goals, such as improved communication skills or emotional regulation techniques, soldiers can begin healing and finding joy once again after serving their country overseas.
How do soldiers rebuild emotional routines disrupted by long-term deployment or high-intensity operational periods?
Although many studies have focused on the traumatic effects of combat and deployments in military members, there is limited research on how they rebuild their emotional routine after these experiences. One theory that can be applied to this process is called "emotional habituation," which suggests that individuals may develop new patterns for dealing with difficult situations based on repeated exposure to stressful events.