Operational stress control in the former Yugoslavia: a joint endeavor

The military has developed specialized mental health teams to evaluate and treat soldiers diagnosed with stress reactions and neuropsychiatric disorders. The response of these mental health teams in support of the year-long peace enforcement mission to Bosnia-Herzegovina is reviewed. Demographics and operational stressors are examined. Stress control doctrine is tested and revised. Credibility with leaders, chaplains, and medical personnel is achieved through rapid response to serious injury or fatality. Emphasis is placed on successful marketing strategies, stress management and suicide prevention classes, prompt access to care, and decreasing the stigma of mental health through education. Coordination of mental health assets promotes synergy and mission accomplishment.