In the latest episode of Psychiatric Casualties, co-hosts Mark Russell and Charles Figley delve into the military’s systemic neglect of mental health care, drawing from Chapter 8 of their book. The episode uncovers a troubling pattern of delay and deception used by the military to avoid addressing the psychological toll of war on service members.
Mark Russell shares his journey as a whistleblower, exposing the military’s reluctance to confront mental health crises and the retaliation faced by those who speak out. The discussion highlights a long history of neglect, from World War II to modern conflicts, where strategies like delaying recognition, employing propaganda, and stalling reforms shield the military from accountability.
Listeners will learn about the three-phase strategy the military uses to avoid scrutiny: delaying acknowledgment of crises, deceiving the public and Congress, and stalling the implementation of solutions. These tactics leave service members without the care they need, with little pressure from Congress or media to drive change.
Episode 17 is a powerful call for transparency, accountability, and better mental health care for those who serve. Tune in to understand the human cost of war and why it’s time to demand reform.
