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Longitudinal Patterns of Distress and Resilience in Japan Self-Defense Forces Peacekeepers
Taku Saito1, Fumiko Waki1, Masanori Nagamine1
1Division of Behavioral Science, National Defense Medical College Research Institute, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa City 359-8513, Japan.
Military Medicine
|February 21, 2026
Summary
United Nations peacekeeping operations (PKO) personnel face psychological distress. Pre-deployment resilience and post-deployment support are key to mitigating long-term distress trajectories and promoting mental health.
Area of Science:
- Psychological distress
- Occupational health
- Military psychology
Background:
- United Nations peacekeeping operations (PKO) present significant psychological stressors.
- Understanding the long-term mental health impact on deployed personnel is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify psychological distress trajectories in PKO personnel.
- To examine the influence of pre-deployment resilience on these trajectories.
- To investigate the role of post-deployment job stressors and support.
Main Methods:
- Prospective cohort study of Japan Ground Self-Defense Forces personnel deployed to South Sudan.
- Latent growth mixture modeling (LGMM) analyzed psychological distress (Kessler Scale) over 24 months.
- Assessed pre-deployment resilience (Tachikawa Scale), general mental health (GHQ), and post-deployment job factors (Brief Job Stress Questionnaire).
Main Results:
- Four distinct psychological distress trajectories were identified: Resilient (57.9%), Recovery (18.6%), Chronic (13.0%), and Delayed (10.5%).
- Pre-deployment factors like anxiety, dysphoria, and sleep disturbance increased risk for the Chronic group.
- Cognitive flexibility (resilience), supervisor support, and good sleep quality were protective factors.
Conclusions:
- Nearly a quarter of PKO personnel experienced long-term psychological distress.
- Pre-deployment resilience, particularly cognitive flexibility, alongside good sleep and stable mood, are vital protective factors.
- Post-deployment interventions addressing job stressors and enhancing support are essential for mental health outcomes.
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