On Killing by LtCol Dave Grossman, 2009, Excerpts
In study after study two factors
show up again and again as critical to the magnitude of the post-traumatic
response. First and more obvious is the intensity of the initial trauma. The
second and less obvious but absolutely vital factor is the nature of the social
support structure available to the traumatized individual.
The social support system – or lack
thereof- upon returning from combat is a critical factor in the veteran’s psychological
health. Indeed, social support after war has been demonstrated to be more
crucial than even the intensity of combat experienced. Psychiatric casualties
increase greatly when the soldier feels isolated.
The honors and decorations that are
traditionally heaped upon military leaders at all levels are vitally important
for their mental health in the years that follow. These decorations, medals,
mentions in dispatches, and other forms of recognition represent a powerful
affirmation from the leader’s society, telling them that he did well, he did
the right thing, and no one blames him for the lives lost in doing his duty.
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