Battlemind is both the mental orientation developed during a combat zone deployment and a program developed at Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) intended to reduce its impact on personal post-deployment issues.

Mental orientation

In the definition provided by the U.S. Army Medical Command

"Battlemind is the Soldier's inner strength to face fear and adversity with courage. Key components include:

  1. Self confidence: taking calculated risks and handling challenges.
  2. Mental toughness: overcoming obstacles or setbacks and maintaining positive thoughts during times of adversity and challenge."[1]

The significance of Battlemind in the Medical Command's context is that "Battlemind skills helped you survive in combat, but may cause you problems if not adapted when you get home."[1]

Initial writings on the subject focused on the utility of battlemind while in service,[2] while several recent works focus on treatment and self-help.[3][4]

Program

The first Battlemind product was a mental health post-deployment briefing. It quickly became a training system supporting soldiers and families across the seven phases of the deployment cycle.[5]

The Battlemind system now includes separate pre-deployment training modules for soldiers, unit leaders, health care providers and spouses. Psychological debriefings are given in theater and upon redeployment. There is also a post-deployment module for spouses and several post-deployment modules for soldiers.

Controversy

Some veteran groups have expressed concern or curiosity about the effectiveness of the Battlemind program in addressing post traumatic stress disorder.[6]

References

  1. 1 2 "Battlemind Information". U.S. Army Medical Command. May 15, 2008. Archived from the original on 29 May 2008. Retrieved May 22, 2008.
  2. ↑ Crosbie E. Saint (1992). Battlemind guidelines for battalion commanders. Headquarters, U.S. Army, Europe and Seventh Army.
  3. ↑ Julia M. Whealin; Lorie T. DeCarvalho; Edward M. Vega (2008). Clinician's Guide to Treating Stress After War: Education and Coping Interventions for Veterans. Wiley. ISBN 978-0-470-25777-7.
  4. ↑ Julia M. Whealin; Lorie T. DeCarvalho; Edward M. Vega (2008). Strategies for Managing Stress After War: Veteran's Workbook and Guide to Wellness. Wiley. ISBN 978-0-470-25776-0.
  5. ↑ Huseman, Susan (Jan 3, 2008). "'Battlemind' Prepares Soldiers for Combat, Returning Home". defenselink.mil. Archived from the original on 20 May 2008. Retrieved May 22, 2008.
  6. ↑ Scott, Larry. "A LOOK AT DoD's "BATTLEMIND" PROGRAM". VA Watchdog. Archived from the original on March 27, 2008. Retrieved May 22, 2008.
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