Sexual health is an important aspect of overall wellbeing for individuals and couples alike.
Military service members and their partners face unique challenges related to sexual health due to the nature of their work. The impact of trauma on both partners' lives can lead to changes in sexual expression, emotional reciprocity, and relational expectations that may have significant consequences for their relationship. This essay will explore how trauma affects these areas and what steps can be taken to address them.
Trauma refers to an experience or witnessing an event that causes intense physical, mental, or emotional distress. For those who serve in the military, this can include combat exposure, deployments, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), among other things. These experiences often result in long-lasting effects that extend beyond the initial incident. Research suggests that trauma can affect a person's ability to connect with others emotionally and physically, including in intimate relationships.
Sexual expression is one area where trauma can have a profound impact. Military partners report experiencing lower levels of satisfaction and less interest in sex after their partner returns from deployment than before they left. They also report feeling more anxious during sex, which can prevent them from enjoying it fully.
Some partners report engaging in risky behaviors such as unprotected sex or extramarital affairs to cope with feelings of loneliness or isolation. These patterns can strain a couple's relationship over time if not addressed.
Emotional reciprocity is another important factor influenced by trauma. When someone has experienced trauma, they may struggle to communicate their needs and desires effectively, leading to misunderstandings and resentment within the relationship. This can make it difficult for both partners to feel understood and supported, leading to further damage to trust and intimacy. Trauma survivors may also have difficulty expressing affection and responding positively to their partner's advances, further compromising emotional connection.
Relational expectations are shaped by past experiences, including trauma. Partners who have been through traumatic events may have unrealistic expectations about what they need from each other or how the relationship should work.
They may expect their partner to be emotionally available at all times, even when dealing with PTSD symptoms. Or, they may anticipate conflict in every situation, leading to increased tension between them.
To address these challenges, couples should seek professional help from a therapist or counselor who specializes in working with military families. They should also prioritize open communication and actively listen to each other's concerns and needs.
They should explore new ways to connect physically and emotionally outside of traditional sexual expression, such as cuddling, massages, or watching TV together. By taking these steps, couples can rebuild trust and intimacy, improving their overall quality of life.
Trauma can have significant effects on sexual health, emotional reciprocity, and relational expectations in military partnerships. Understanding this reality is essential for any service member or partner seeking to maintain a healthy relationship. Seeking support, communicating effectively, and exploring alternative forms of connection can help couples navigate these challenges successfully.
How does trauma influence sexual expression, emotional reciprocity, and relational expectations in military partnerships?
Traumatic experiences can have a significant impact on individuals' ability to engage in intimate relationships and sexual behavior, particularly in romantic relationships with military members. The effects of trauma are often multifaceted and can include a range of factors such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues that may affect one's mood, behaviors, and overall wellbeing.