Psychological Resilience: Preparing our Soldiers for War

Abstract : Veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan are diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) at an alarming rate. This significantly impacts the combat readiness of our formations and the well-being of our most valuable resource - our Soldiers. The Army has allocated tremendous resources to assist those diagnosed with PTSD - we are reactive in this regard. Commanders at all levels must become more knowledgeable and proactive in developing ways to prepare their formations to deal with adversity during combat operations. Although Commanders are conducting tough and realistic training prior to deployment, the high number of returnees diagnosed with PTSD indicates we are not doing enough. In training it is difficult to replicate the true nature of war; specifically graphic injuries to Soldiers or other traumatic events. The Army must assist commanders by conducting effective mental health screening on Soldiers prior to deploying, provide training that strengthens Soldiers through resilience and exposure, and provide forward mental health support. This paper addresses the issue of psychologically preparing our Soldiers for War; building psychological resilience. It will also address how the human dimension of leadership can assist in achieving this effect.