Battle Fatigue is a temporary emotional disorder or inability
to function, experienced by a previously normal soldier as a reaction
to the overwhelming or cumulative stress of combat. By definition,
battle fatigue gets better with reassurance, rest, physical replenishment
and activities which restore confidence. Physical fatigue, or
sleep loss, although commonly present, is not necessary. All combat
and combat support troops are likely to feel battle fatigue under
conditions of intense and/or prolonged stress. They may even become
battle fatigue casualties, unable to perform their mission roles
for hours or days. Other negative behaviors may be CSRs, but are
not called battle fatigue because they need other treatment than
simple rest, replenishment and restoration of confidence. These
negative CSRs include drug and alcohol abuse, committing atrocities
against enemy prisoners and noncombatants, looting, desertion,
and self-inflicted wounds. These harmful CSRs can often be prevented
by good psychological first aid; however, if these negative actions
occur, these persons may require disciplinary action instead of
reassurance and rest.
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