Citation

Clifford C, McCauley M. J. R. Army Med. Corps 2019; 165(2): 94-97.

Affiliation

Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2019, UK Royal Army Medical Corps)

DOI

10.1136/jramc-2018-001046

PMID

30679182

Abstract

Military personnel can experience psychosexual difficulties for a variety of reasons. Problems can arise because of psychological trauma, physical injury, consequences arising from pharmacological and surgical complications and social or emotional concerns relating to intrapersonal and interpersonal relationship dynamics. Such individuals might seek to minimise or avoid resolving their pertinent difficulties, while others can experience cultural, personal or organisational barriers to accessing professional help. This paper offers an overview of the development of a national specialist psychosexual therapy service (PST), commenting specifically on the service delivery for male military personnel. It will also consider factors which may support progress in treatment and reflect upon the importance of considering psychosexual functioning in relationships as part of the broader service-life context, which is especially relevant to military personnel.

© Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2019. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.

Language: en

Keywords

genital trauma; health; mental health; military; psychology; psychosexual