THE EFFECT OF POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER ON SEXUAL FUNCTIONING OF MILITARY AND VETERANS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31732/2663-2209-2022-70-180-186Abstract
The article highlights the peculiarities of the relationship between post-traumatic stress disorder and various types of sexual dysfunctions that may occur in veterans and military personnel. In particular, foreign studies of previous years have been analyzed, statistical data on the prevalence of sexual dysfunctions among different cohorts of military personnel and veterans, as well as the statistical prevalence of sexual dysfunctions against the background of post-traumatic stress disorder among military and civilian populations have been compared. Attention is drawn to the fact that the level of sexual dysfunction among military personnel with post-traumatic stress disorder is higher than among the civilian population. Additional, aggravating factors that can complicate or inhibit the scientific study of this issue, as well as collectively burden the anamnesis of the specified group of subjects, are indicated. Attention is focused on the lack of relevant systematic research among female veterans and female military personnel. The cause-and-effect relationship of sexual dysfunctions with post-traumatic stress disorder is determined, in addition, the prevalence of sexual disorders against the background of post-traumatic stress disorder or other conditions, such as depression, anxiety, etc., is also outlined. The typical symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, which can directly or indirectly lead to various kinds of sexual disorders, are analyzed: difficulties with experiencing positive emotions, alienation, feeling of separation from others, loss of interest in activities that previously caused positive emotions, etc. The impact of partnership on the specifics of experiencing sexual dysfunction against the background of post-traumatic stress disorder is highlighted. The factors that can complicate the process of discussing intimate issues both by clients or patients, and by psychologists or doctors are indicated. General recommendations for starting the discussion of sexual problems were given and the expediency of the direction of sexual rehabilitation in the process of complex rehabilitation measures, which are provided to veterans and military personnel regardless of their age and gender, was updated.
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