Combining Clinical Treatment and Peer Support: A Unique Approach to Overcoming Stigma and Delivering Care.

摘要

Operational Stress Injury (OSI) is the term used in the Canadian military to describe psychological illnesses resulting from traumatic events experienced by soldiers during operational duties. These include post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and substance abuse. The Canadian Forces and Veterans Affairs Canada have established mental health clinics, called Operational Trauma and Stress Support Centres (OTSSC's), and Operational Stress Injury (OSI) Clinics across Canada to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment of members and veterans suffering from OSI's. Yet it often takes years for traumatized soldiers to present for care. There are many reasons for this. Shame, isolation, and institutional stigmatizing of mental illness are compelling counter-forces to the urge to seek help. Recent research has shown that the fear of stigma is one of the principal reasons why soldiers do not seek treatment, even when they recognize that they are suffering from psychological problems. In contrast to this, the literature tells us that early intervention is a critical factor in decreasing the sequelae of PTSD and other mental disorders.