PTSD and Stigma in the Australian Army

This paper by John Bale and published by the Australian Army seeks to identify the nature of the stigma attached to Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other mental health conditions in the Australian Army.  It also looks at the negative implications of such a stigma on the individual, the workplace and the Army as a whole.

PTSD needs to be identified and treated early but many people fear the negative judgements of people around them so do not receive early diagnosis.  Previous reports have found that stigma surrounding mental health issues is a considerable barrier in the Australian Defence Force and particularly in the Army.  PTSD and Stigma in the Australian Army analyses Canadian, British and US initiatives and provides key recommendations to the Australian Army on how to combat stigma.