War is not just about the physical casualties; it’s also about the invisible wounds that linger long after the battlefield is silent. In our latest episode of Psychiatric Casualties on CHW Streaming Radio airing on Tuesday nights at 7 PM CST, we delve into the military’s chronic neglect of mental health care and the dark strategies that have perpetuated this issue.
From the American Civil War to the wars of today, we learn that psychiatric casualties have long outnumbered those killed or wounded in combat. Yet, every generation seems to forget the lessons of the past, leading to a cycle of neglect that affects millions of Veterans and their families. It becomes clear that preparedness, adequate staffing, and zero tolerance for stigma are just a few of the areas that require urgent attention.
Your hosts, Mark and Charles, bring to light the harsh reality of military discipline and how it has historically been used to handle war stress injuries. They discuss the concept of “Old Sargent Syndrome,” where even the most resilient soldiers reach a breaking point, challenging the military’s approach to mental health.
As we navigate through the episode, we encounter the first “dark strategy” of cruel and inhumane punishment, a primitive response to the mental health dilemma. We learn about the stark examples of branding, barreling, and shackling used to discipline those considered weak, without distinction between cowardice and legitimate psychiatric wounds.
The episode also touches on the modern-day implications of these historical practices, such as the stigma surrounding PTSD and the alarming rates of suicide among service members. It becomes evident that while the methods of punishment may have evolved, the underlying issue of neglect remains.
This episode is not just a history lesson; it’s a call to action. It’s a reminder that the full cost of war includes the mental well-being of those who serve. If you’re interested in military history, mental health, or the intersection of both, this podcast episode is a must-listen. Tune in to understand the gravity of the issue and the steps we can take to support our Veterans better. Listen now and be part of the conversation to change the narrative around military mental health care.
picture reference: Engraving in “” Le Monde Illustré”” n°276 of 26 July 1862. by French School
