The instinct to suppress emotions is one that many soldiers have developed due to hierarchal systems and social interaction in the military. This can be challenging for them to overcome after they leave service because it becomes an ingrained behavior that is difficult to break. In order to unlearn this habit, soldiers need to rewire their brain by changing how they interact socially with others and recognizing the importance of expressing emotions.
Step 1: Recognize Emotional Needs
To begin the process of unlearning the suppression of emotions, soldiers must recognize what they are feeling. They need to identify when they feel happy, sad, angry, frustrated, excited, anxious, or lonely. This can be done through self-reflection and introspection. It may also help to talk to loved ones about their feelings and receive validation from them.
Step 2: Reframe Thoughts
Soldiers should learn to reframe their thoughts around emotions. Instead of telling themselves that they cannot show emotion, they should remind themselves that it is okay to express their feelings. They can also challenge negative thoughts that come up, such as "people will judge me if I cry," or "I'm too weak if I show my emotions." By reframing these thoughts, soldiers can slowly start to change their perspective on showing emotion.
Step 3: Practice Expressing Emotions
Soldiers should practice expressing their emotions in safe and healthy ways. This could include talking to a trusted friend or family member about how they feel, writing down their feelings in a journal, exercising, or practicing mindfulness meditation. The key here is to give themselves permission to experience all emotions without judgment.
Step 4: Find Supportive Community
Soldiers should find a supportive community where they feel comfortable expressing themselves openly. This could be online forums, therapy groups, or support networks. Sharing experiences with others who have gone through similar struggles can provide valuable insight into the process of unlearning this behavior.
Unlearning the instinct to suppress emotional needs is not an easy task, but it is possible with patience and dedication. By recognizing what they are feeling, reframing their thoughts, practicing expression, and finding a supportive community, soldiers can begin to break free from this ingrained habit and live more authentically.
How does a soldier unlearn the instinct to suppress emotional needs when hierarchy has shaped their social interactions?
The process of rewiring one's brain after years of conditioning is not easy and can be very challenging for individuals who have been accustomed to following orders and exhibiting emotional suppression as part of their training. It requires conscious effort and self-awareness to recognize and acknowledge the underlying emotions that may be driving one's behavior. This can involve therapy, mindfulness practices, and support from family and friends.