The psychological effects of military service are complex and multifaceted. Serving in the military can bring about a wide range of emotions, including pride, camaraderie, fear, trauma, and even guilt. It is important for both service members and their loved ones to understand and address these emotions in order to maintain mental well-being.
One of the most common psychological effects of military service is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, such as combat or other life-threatening situations.
The Willows at Red Oak RecoveryⓇ offers rehab for female military members struggling with PTSD. Our program is designed specifically to empower veterans and active-duty service members.
Veteran and Military Mental Health Issues
The similarity between PTSD and combat stress is one that, as mentioned earlier, can create confusion between which condition is present. A key difference between the two is the fact that sufferers of PTSD can deal with their symptoms long after any combat has been experienced. Creating a space at home that feels equally as or even more uncomfortable than being on active duty. PTSD can be suffered by anyone who has undergone or been injured in a traumatic experience, and while not exclusive to servicemembers, being in a position where you are constantly exposed to these stressors leaves you all the more susceptible. Some symptoms equated to PTSD include:
Intrusive Memories
Intrusive memories are an example of a symptom that accompanies PTSD. These are situations where the memories of a traumatic event are often relived or remembered in flashbacks. Oftentimes, these intrusive thoughts can manifest in nightmares and affect sleep patterns. In addition to this, sounds or locations that resemble the place where the trauma occurred can cause issues for someone who has returned home from service. Leading to a potentially harder time assimilating back into everyday life.
Mood Changes
Returning home from combat can be a massive adjustment, and a symptom common with this transition is mood changes. Things like negative self-thinking or worldview, an ongoing sense of fear, anxiety, or guilt, and detachment from friends and family can all be present when experiencing PTSD symptoms.
Physical/Emotional Changes
Your mind does its best to protect you while in the stressful state of combat. However, upon returning home it is common for the mind to still be on high alert. This causes symptoms such as being startled or frightened easily or always being on guard due to the memory of the trauma being closer to the surface than believed. In addition to these, trouble sleeping, irritability, and bodily reactions like sweating, shortness of breath, and shaking are also common.
Women in the Military
Women especially face unique challenges when it comes to mental health in the military. They often have to navigate a male-dominated environment, which can lead to feelings of isolation and being misunderstood. In addition, female service members may also face sexual harassment or assault, which can greatly impact their mental well-being.
Women also tend to have different coping mechanisms and communication styles than men, which can make it harder for them to seek help or express their emotions. It is important for the military and veteran support systems to be aware of these differences and provide tailored resources for female service members.
Understanding the Psychological Effects of Military Service
Understanding the psychological effects of military service includes comprehending:
- The importance of addressing and understanding emotions related to military service
- The common occurrence of PTSD among service members
- Differentiating between combat stress and PTSD
- Unique challenges faced by female service members in regards to mental health
- Providing tailored resources for female service members in the military and veteran support systems.
Understanding these issues is crucial in providing effective support for veterans and active-duty service members. It is important for mental health professionals, loved ones, and society as a whole to recognize the sacrifices made by those who serve in the military and offer the necessary support and resources for their well-being.
Our Rehab for Female Military Members
At The Willows at Red Oak RecoveryⓇ, we understand the unique challenges that women face in the military and offer a specialized rehab program to address their specific needs. Our female-focused staff creates a safe and supportive environment for female service members to heal and recover from PTSD and other mental health issues.
Through a combination of evidence-based therapies, adventure therapy, and holistic practices, we help our clients process their traumas and learn healthy coping mechanisms. We also provide education on how to manage triggers and maintain mental wellness after leaving treatment.
We believe that every veteran and active-duty service member deserves access to quality mental health care, regardless of gender. That’s why we are committed to
Enroll in Rehab for Military Members at The Willows at Red Oak RecoveryⓇ Today
Understanding how challenging the transition back to everyday life can be can equip you with the confidence needed to traverse the path that so many have before. Knowing that there are support systems and trained professionals willing to help can make a huge difference in the ease of transition. If you or a loved one require help in a situation like this, contact The Willows at Red Oak RecoveryⓇ at 828.518.6941 or reach out through the online form. We are here to empower you or a loved one so you can live your best life.
