PROGNOSTIC FACTORS OF SEXUAL DYSFUNCTIONS IN MILITARY AND VETERANS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31732/2663-2209-2024-74-332-339Keywords:
veterans, military personnel, depression, erectile dysfunction, decreased sex drive, post-traumatic stress disorder, mental disorders, rehabilitation, couple relationship, sexual dysfunction, sexual rehabilitation, anxietyAbstract
The article highlights the peculiarities of sexual dysfunctions in military personnel and veterans and their prognostic factors. In particular, foreign studies of previous years are analysed, attention is focused on the unresolved parts of the general research problem, and the problematic areas of existing research results are emphasised. In addition, the author focuses on the unevenness of research among men and women involved in military affairs, as well as the lack of data on differences in their sexual health. The main groups of precursors of deterioration in sexual functioning are identified, which were conditionally divided into two groups of ‘inorganic’ and ‘organic’ factors. An in-depth review of the specifics of inorganic precursors of sexual dysfunctions is carried out. Among them are psychological factors, social influences, relationship problems, and mental health disorders of a non-organic nature. Separate clusters of post-traumatic stress disorder are considered and their uneven impact on possible sexual dysfunctions is noted. Attention is focused on such changes as emotional numbness, avoidance, obsessive symptoms, chronic autonomic arousal and their connection with sexual problems in veterans and military personnel. The relationship between various precursors of sexual problems and typical sexual dysfunctions to which they mostly lead is indicated. Some differences in the way the same predictors of sexual dysfunction can affect the sexual functioning of male and female veterans are highlighted. Important associated factors of sexual dysfunction, such as depression, anxiety disorders, antidepressant medication, etc. are considered. Some organic precursors and their impact on the deterioration of sexual functioning are noted. The importance of psychoeducation among veteran families as a way of early prevention of sexual dysfunctions is also emphasised. In addition, the importance of raising awareness among professionals in helping professions about possible deterioration in the sexual functioning of military personnel and veterans is highlighted.
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