Mental Disorder Hospitalizations among Submarine Personnel in the U.S. Navy.
Abstract
U.S. Navy submarine duty exposes personnel to a stressful environment that could have adverse mental health effects. The effects of the submarine environment on mental health need to be evaluated to ensure future successful submarine missions. The objective of this study was to determine mental health risks associated with submarine duty in the U.S. Navy by comparing hospitalization rates of submariners with surface-ship personnel in the diagnostic category of mental disorders. Results indicated that submarine personnel had significantly lower hospitalization rates for all mental disorders combined than surface-ship personnel. Submariners were also statistically significantly lower in hospitalization rates for alcohol abuse, drug abuse, and personality disorders, and all ICDA-8 diagnoses. Submarine duty does not appear to adversely affect the mental health of U.S. Naval personnel. Results also show that submariners have a lower total hospitalization rate than personnel of surface ships with a similar crew size. (KT)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 10, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA195871
Entities
People
- Lawrence A Palinkas
- Ralph G. Burr
Organizations
- Naval Health Research Center