Study Suggests Justified Killing May Not Hinder Soldiers’ Mental Wellbeing
A recent study from Norway challenges common perceptions about the psychological effects of killing during combat. Researchers from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, alongside the Norwegian Armed Forces Joint Medical Services, have released findings that suggest soldiers may not experience harmful effects on their mental health if they believe their actions in combat are justified.
This study comes at a significant time, having been published about 18 months into the ongoing Israel-Hamas War. It highlights the differing impacts of combat experiences in two distinct mission contexts: combat operations in Afghanistan and peacekeeping missions in Lebanon.
According to Commander Andreas Espetvedt Nordstrand, a lead researcher in this study, ‘Killing another person does not in itself seem to be something that goes against human nature, and it doesn’t necessarily harm the mental health of the person who does it.’ This revelation may alter the ongoing dialogue around wartime trauma and its implications for veterans.
During the study, which analyzed over 14,000 Norwegian veterans, only a small percentage reported having killed in combat. The majority served in varying capacities, with significant service periods in both Lebanon and Afghanistan. Nordstrand noted the differences, saying, ‘The peacekeeping mission in Lebanon seems to have had a more detrimental effect on soldiers’ mental health compared to those who served in Afghanistan.’
In Lebanon, where soldiers focused on maintaining peace rather than engaging in direct combat, the stressors of personal threats and witnessing death led to greater long-term mental health issues. The study’s findings align with broader mental health trends observed among returning soldiers, particularly those dealing with PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
The Larger Context: Mental Health Issues Among Soldiers
As reported by Israel’s Defense Ministry, recent data shows that nearly 7,500 soldiers returning from ongoing conflicts are dealing with significant psychological challenges, prompting concerns about Israel’s mental health infrastructure. A State Comptroller’s Report indicated insufficient preparatory measures in addressing anticipated mental health fallout from the war, cautioning that millions of Israelis could experience similar issues.
Amid these challenges, the establishment of mental health support centers in Northern Israeli towns like Haifa and Nahariya comes as a response to the increasing psychological needs of IDF soldiers struggling with mental traumas related to the ongoing conflict.
Conclusion: Insights for Future Research and Support Strategies
This study not only sheds light on the mental health impacts of combat but also emphasizes the necessity for tailored mental health programs aimed at veterans. Understanding the psychological landscape of combat experiences will be essential for developing supportive measures that can effectively promote healing and reintegration for those who have served.
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