The ability to suppress one's feelings is essential for the proper functioning of many military units. This can be especially true during times of war, when soldiers must remain focused on their mission and not become distracted by fear or sadness.
This suppression can have unintended consequences, such as difficulty forming healthy romantic relationships later in life. This article explores how some military personnel have learned to balance the need for emotional control with the desire for relational openness in their personal lives.
One way that service members learn to suppress their emotions is through strict adherence to protocols and regulations. In the military, every action has a purpose and every decision is made based on what will best serve the mission. This type of rigid thinking can translate into other areas of life, making it difficult to let down one's guard and express genuine emotion.
Many veterans develop an aversion to intimacy because they have seen how easily it can lead to vulnerability and weakness.
Some veterans find relief in physical activity, which provides a channel for releasing stress and tension without allowing themselves to feel too much. Others turn to alcohol or drugs, which may temporarily numb their pain but ultimately make it worse in the long run. Some seek counseling or therapy, where they can work through their trauma with professional guidance. Still others turn to creative outlets like writing, painting, or music, which allow them to process their experiences in a safe and constructive manner.
For those who want to form lasting relationships after leaving the military, communication is key. It is important to be honest about one's feelings and needs from the beginning, and not hide behind a facade of stoicism or strength. Couples should also be patient with each other as they adjust to civilian life and learn to live together again. It may take time for veterans to trust enough to share their deepest thoughts and fears, but once they do, they often find that their partners are more than willing to listen and support them.
Reconciling emotional suppression with relational openness requires self-awareness, honesty, and patience. Service members must recognize when they are bottling up their feelings and find healthy ways to release them, whether through physical exercise, artistic expression, or therapy. They must also communicate clearly with their partners and be prepared to invest time and energy into building strong relationships. With effort and understanding on both sides, veterans can develop rich and fulfilling personal lives even while dealing with the lingering effects of their service.
How do service members reconcile emotional suppression with the need for relational openness?
In order to reconcile emotional suppression with the need for relational openness, service members may adopt different strategies such as expressing their feelings only to trusted individuals, engaging in meaningful activities that provide them with a sense of fulfillment and purpose, seeking professional help if necessary, and finding support groups where they can connect with others who share similar experiences.