The Rehabilitation of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder of Servicemen: Certain Aspects

Abstract

Aim: This article reviews and assesses the problematic and topical issues of rehabilitation of servicemen who have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) caused by trauma and stress during and after the completion of combat operations, and special tasks. Analysis and generalization of types of rehabilitation are based on international experience and identification of measures to overcome PTSD. Materials and Methods: The research is based on the analysis of international documents, empirical and analytical data of the World Health Organization, international and public organizations dealing with the treatment and rehabilitation of military personnel and war veterans, scientific and analytical studies related to the types of rehabilitation used to overcome the negative consequences of PTSD. Both general and specific scientific methods are applied as the foundation of the methodology: dialectical; systemic and structural; conceptual and comparative; methods of analysis, synthesis, and observation. Conclusions: The duration of stay in the combat zone, the deaths of comrades and civilians, violent acts, and the use of weapons against the enemy undoubtedly affect the psychological state of servicemen and can lead to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder. Psychological support and rehabilitation of servicemen are necessary to restore psychological health and reduce the severity of the consequences of psychological injuries, stressful conditions, and aberrant behavior outside the combat zone. Introducing new methods, technologies, tools, development of programs, and guidelines for rehabilitating military personel suffering from post-traumatic mental disorders should be universally accepted. International experience is especially important for developing and improving the rehabilitation system. International organizations should develop a single, generally accepted mechanism for overcoming the consequences of PTSD, taking into account the practice of countries that are actively working in this direction.