A growing body of research has shown that intimate relationships can be crucial for mental well-being in many ways. It is also becoming increasingly evident that intimacy could have protective effects against post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other psychological issues resulting from exposure to trauma. This paper will discuss how sustained intimacy may act as a buffer against the onset of PTSD or chronic stress in deployed soldiers.
Intimate relationships provide comfort and emotional support during times of distress. They allow people to share their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgement or rejection. This can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation that may arise during deployment, which are associated with increased risk of developing PTSD. Intimacy can also boost self-esteem and reduce symptoms of depression, both of which are common comorbidities of PTSD.
Sustained intimacy has been linked to improved immune function and physical health. In a study conducted among US Marines returning home from Iraq, those who reported higher levels of relationship satisfaction had lower levels of inflammatory markers than those who did not. These markers were found to be associated with a reduced likelihood of developing PTSD. The study concluded that "relationships appear to play an important role in the development of illness after deployment," suggesting that they should be considered part of a comprehensive treatment plan for PTSD.
Intimate relationships can help individuals cope with traumatic events more effectively. When faced with stressful situations, we naturally turn to our loved ones for support. We seek out understanding, empathy, and validation, all of which are essential components of effective coping strategies. A strong support system can help us process and integrate negative experiences into our overall sense of self, reducing the impact of trauma on our mental wellbeing.
There is still much to learn about how intimacy affects soldiers' resilience to trauma. Future research could explore whether different types of intimacy (e.g., romantic vs. platonic) have differential effects on PTSD risk, as well as how other factors such as gender identity or sexual orientation may influence these relationships. It will also be important to investigate whether intimacy acts as a buffer against other psychological disorders commonly seen in deployed personnel, such as depression and substance abuse.
The evidence suggests that sustained intimacy may play a vital role in protecting deployed soldiers from the harmful effects of PTSD and chronic stress. As such, it warrants further investigation as part of a broader strategy for promoting military health and readiness.
Can sustained intimacy serve as a buffer against the onset of PTSD or chronic stress in deployed soldiers?
The onset of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is often characterized by feelings of isolation, hypervigilance, and flashbacks triggered by trauma. For soldiers deployed for an extended period of time, this can be extremely challenging due to their exposure to multiple traumatic events and a lack of support from loved ones back home.