COMBAT STRESS, COMBAT FATIGUE, AND PSYCHIATRIC DISABILITY IN AIRCREW

A survey of the literature reveals little delta regarding modern aviat ion and combat-related stress, fatigue, or psychiatric disabilities. W hat little is known about combat fatigue in aircrew is largely inferre d from literature written about ground personnel. Understanding the un ique aviation environment is necessary in order to develop effective c ombat fatigue prevention programs. This paper reviews and summarizes t he literature regarding aeromedical aspects of combat stress reactions . Combat stress, fatigue, and psychiatric disabilities are common batt lefield conditions, but are largely preventable. If not prevented or t reated appropriately, combat stress reactions will frequently lead to more serious psychiatric disabilities, causing the evacuation of the c ombatant away from his or her unit with no expectation of return to du ty. Appropriate intervention using the basic principles of proximity, immediacy, and expectancy are crucial in reducing these casualties and returning aviation personnel to combat duty.