Soldiers witness many things that civilians can't even imagine. They are trained to deal with extreme situations like combat, but what happens when they witness traumatic events such as death or severe injuries among their comrades? What are some of the ways they cope with these experiences? In this article, we will explore how soldiers deal with the emotional aftermath of witnessing death or serious injuries in their peers.
When faced with the sight of a dead or severely injured soldier, most soldiers feel an intense combination of emotions including shock, sadness, guilt, fear, anger, disgust, and even numbness. It is normal for them to experience nightmares, flashbacks, and other symptoms related to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These symptoms can be debilitating if left untreated and may lead to anxiety, depression, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, and other mental health problems.
There are several ways soldiers can manage these feelings and find support.
The first way is to seek professional help from mental health professionals. Soldiers who have experienced war-related trauma can benefit from therapy sessions where they can process their emotions, understand their reactions, and develop coping mechanisms. They should also attend group counseling with fellow veterans who share similar experiences. These groups provide a safe space to express feelings, receive empathy and understanding, and connect with others who have been through similar struggles. Mental health services such as individual therapy, family therapy, and medication may also be helpful in managing PTSD symptoms.
Another way soldiers can cope with the emotional aftermath of witnessing death or severe injury in their comrades is by talking about it. Talking openly with friends and loved ones can help soldiers feel supported and understood. It's important to find someone who listens without judging or minimizing their experience. Sharing stories and memories can also be cathartic and help soldiers make sense of what happened. Some soldiers may choose to write down their experiences or create artwork to express themselves.
Soldiers should also take care of their physical well-being by getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding drugs and alcohol. These activities can improve mood, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. Physical activity is particularly effective for reducing anxiety and improving cognitive function.
Veterans organizations offer various resources and support programs that can help soldiers deal with the emotional aftermath of war-related trauma. Veteran-run nonprofits like the Wounded Warrior Project and Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) offer peer-to-peer support, employment assistance, financial aid, legal aid, and mental health counseling. These organizations provide a community where soldiers can receive guidance, support, and camaraderie from those who understand their unique challenges.
Witnessing death or serious injuries among peers during combat is a common occurrence for military personnel.
There are several ways soldiers can cope with these experiences and find support. They should seek professional help, talk about their feelings, take care of their physical well-being, and connect with other veterans through organizations such as IAVA and Wounded Warrior Project. By taking actionable steps towards managing their symptoms, soldiers can overcome the emotional aftermath of war-related trauma and lead fulfilling lives outside of the military.
How do soldiers cope with the emotional aftermath of witnessing death or severe injury in peers?
The experience of seeing a fellow soldier die is devastating for most people, and it can take an emotional toll that lasts long after the event has ended. In fact, according to research, many combat veterans report experiencing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms as a result of their experiences on the battlefield.