Confronting Combat Stress Reactions
Abstract
The continuous deployment of our forces over the past 8 plus years has resulted in an alarming increase in the number of Soldiers developing symptoms of, or being diagnosed with, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), or symptoms of long-term major depression. There are growing concerns regarding repeated deployments and the cumulative effects of combat stress reactions experienced by our forces that could eventually result in a significant reduction in the total number of Soldiers being available to support future conflicts. Senior leaders must rapidly recognize the stressors placed on the mental health and well-being of our Soldiers and their Families. Increased efforts are required to change both the mindset and culture of our senior leaders to ensure that adequate measures and programs are implemented to both support and assist our veterans, Soldiers, and Families in tackling these conditions now and in the future. Also, because of future post-conflict budget cuts, the Army has elected to execute internal initiatives while fighting two wars which prevents Soldiers from effectively seeking needed quality health care and spending necessary time with their families. Other topics that this paper addresses are as follows: Historical Findings that Brought Mental Health Disorders to the Forefront; PTSD, TBI, and Major Depression in Male and Female Soldiers Returning from Iraq and Afghanistan; Stigmas Causing Soldiers to Avoid Seeking Mental Health Care Services; Mental Health Conditions Are Also Affecting Senior Leaders; Inexperienced Leaders Are Being Thrust Into the Role of Making Critical Decisions Because the Army Cannot Retain Enough Mid-Grade Officers; Cumulative Effects Impacting Families; Changing Our Culture to Embrace Growing Medical Conditions; Overhauling VA to Support the Mental Health Care Needs of Our Veterans; and Recommendations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 22, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA518051
Entities
People
- Archie P. Davis Iii
Organizations
- United States Army War College