Journal of Psychology & Behavioral Science

Investigating the Psychiatric Lessons of War and Pattern of Preventable Wartime Behavioral Health Crises
Mark C Russell, Charles R. Figley, Kirsten R. Robertson

Abstract
Background: After extensive review of official military records, government investigations, and news media accounts, the authors provide the first-ever examination of repetitive mental health crises after every major American war since the 20th century. Method: Compelling evidence of generational crises is established using direct testimony from credible first-hand sources, clearly indicating that over the past century American society has continued to replicate preventable mental health crises. Results: This has largely been caused by repetitive failure to learn from and improve upon lessons learned about the psychiatric effects of war. The authors identify ten super ordinate “foundational lessons” essential to meeting wartime needs. Conclusion: Antiquated medical dualism, dysfunctional organizational structure, and leadership ambivalence toward mental health services are believed to promulgate a culture of mental health stigma, discrimination, and disparity. The key to transforming military mental healthcare and ending the cycle is to adopt a contemporary holistic mind-body approach emphasizing full-parity with medical services.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/jpbs.v3n1a1