Military Service in Southern Europe Sparks Thoughts but not Fear in Recruits – However, It’s Worthwhile to Confront and Share Worries

The ongoing situation between Russia and Ukraine did not influence Anni Rönkö from Pyhäjärvi’s decision to volunteer for service in the Pori Brigade. However, she has given the situation some thought. “If the worst were to happen, at least I know what to do. I do not have to remain inactive,” she states.

Tuukka Reijonen from Kouvola believes that the military will enhance his ability to handle pressure. The idea of war does not scare him. If he had to go to the front, he believes it would require sacrifices. “I would go there for the sake of my loved ones,” he says.

Akseli Willman from Kuopio does not consider the threat of war likely. “I’m not particularly afraid. It’s quite unbelievable that there really would be a war in Finland now. Even if there were, Finland is at least ready. I believe we’ll manage here quite well,” says Willman, who is starting his service in the Kainuu Brigade.

The Commander of the Finnish Defence Forces, General Janne Jaakkola, states that the situation in Finland’s neighboring areas is calm, albeit not easy. “We have no reason for anxiety or unrest,” he emphasizes, encouraging anyone with worries to not dwell on them alone.

Health and Wellness Institute research professor Anu Castaneda echoes this message. If fear of war bothers you or even haunts your dreams, she recommends confronting and discussing these fears. “It’s definitely worth considering what concerns or scares you,” Castaneda advises, emphasizing that fears and worries should not be belittled, dismissed or denied.

“If we think a worry is not relevant and decide that there is no need to worry at all, then a person can be left alone with their concern,” she points out. In her view, it’s important to stop and listen. You don’t necessarily have to know what to say or solve the problem. Rather, listen or thank the person for sharing their worries and fears.

According to Castaneda, it may be easy to think that avoiding fear brings temporary relief. “A more permanent relief comes from daring to think about what scares us and what we see as a threat. Let’s dare to face the thought, and we’ll manage this in some way,” she concludes.