Combat Stress Center.com

Managing Combat and Operational Stress:  It’s Everybody’s Business

Written by COL Chrisitine Piper, MNC-I behavioral health consultant and MAJ Ronald Glaus, OIC of the 2^nd Medical Brigade, Mental Health Section

 

 

“Are you ok soldier?”, “Yes, Sergeant Major, I’m fine.”  As the conversation continued, it was clear that the SGM had noticed something of possible concern about this soldier, and took time to check it out.  The soldier provided some brief information, providing reassurance that she was ok.  This limited interaction is an example of one of the keys in helping individuals manages stress in theatre.  Whether you are in a leadership position, or looking out for your “battle buddy”, taking time to notice and ask how someone is doing is critical.

 

“Know your soldiers” is a phrase that has been heard for years.  Putting it in operation at key times could mean the difference in saving someone’s life.  Someone who experiences a significant loss may have more difficulty managing the day-to-day stresses of the operational theatre.  In 2003, loss of a relationship was a contributing factor in over 70% of completed suicides in the US Army.  Leaders taking time to check with soldiers when they return from R&R may find that additional support is needed. Getting a soldier who has experienced losses during R & R connected with support whether through the chaplains, mental health or a battle buddy, may help them to refocus on their combat role.

 

In a recent study of combat veterans (New England Journal of Medicine, 1 July 04), responders reported concern about possible stigmatization and other barriers to seeking mental health care in theatre (travel distance, not knowing where resources are, concern about confidentiality).  The mental health leadership in Iraq has implemented initiatives to address these concerns.  CSC, is an information and referral resource in theater, available web based and by DNVT.  CSC allows a service member to locate Division Mental health, Combat Stress control or Chaplain Services closest to where they are based.  This fall OIF tip cards will be distributed to all soldiers with various topics related to management of combat and operational stress.  This is an MNF-I and MNC-I command endorsed program under the aegis of the Command Sergeants Major in which unit NCO’s will work with their Unit Ministry teams and Mental Health staff for training.  This collaboration has the potential to reduce the stigma and improve access to care for the soldier in need.  This personal support at the NCO level builds trust toward leaders for positive help seeking before problems turn into crises, loss of a soldier from duty, or preventable tragedies.  The clear message for the military culture is that taking care of stress is everybody’s business everyday and is as important as maintenance of equipment, hydration, and physical fitness in preserving the fighting strength.