India’s Armed Forces have defended the country amidst various wars. Even today, the Armed Forces, consisting of the Indian Army, the Indian Navy and the Indian Airforce, continue to put their lives at risk so that we can sleep peacefully. However, witnessing combat and the constant threats of violence can take a toll on their mental health. This Vijay Diwas, let’s understand the stressors that trigger mental health issues in the Armed Forces.

India observes Vijay Diwas on 16th December to commemorate the country’s victory over Pakistan in the 1971 Indo–Pak War. The war, which culminated in India’s victory on 16th December, witnessed thousands of soldiers perish on both sides and led to the creation of Bangladesh. On Vijay Diwas, we pay respect to the martyrs of the Indo–Pak war.

Being in an unending state of combat can radically impact one’s psychological health. The top factors contributing to our military heroes’ mental health issues are:

War is not pretty, and numerous military men and women lose their lives daily. Witnessing the death of comrades can be a traumatic experience, which does not bode well with mental health. Post–traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can trigger severe anxiety, night terrors, insomnia, anger, etc. News of soldiers committing suicide is not uncommon.

Firings or bombings can occur without notice. Armed Forces must be vigilant to prevent such violent acts. Knowing that you can be under attack anytime can cause extreme stress and anxiety. Behavioural changes, panic attacks, depression, hypertension and fatigue, are additional effects of stress and anxiety.

Surrounding oneself with friends and family is necessary for mental health. Armed Forces are stationed at their respective bases for months. Staying away from family causes domestic problems like marital discords, detachment from children, etc. Reports have shown that the inability to provide support during domestic crises has driven many soldiers to commit suicide.

Poor salaries, low–quality amenities and denial of leaves can cause stress. Humiliation by senior personnel and leadership issues are significant causes as well. The stigma of being perceived as weak for voicing mental health issues is still very prevalent in military roles. Moreover, the shortage of troops increases the workload of the existing forces without proper compensation. All these issues contribute to mental deterioration.

Our soldiers are not killing machines. The mental health strains they experience are worst since their job is to protect the entire country. Distressing mental health can have adverse effects on physical health too. Depression and stress can lead to chronic illnesses, including cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, respiratory diseases, etc.

Such individuals can treat various psychological illnesses and their physical effects with health insurance. Health insurance covers them against mental and physical ailments. While Armed Forces are equipped with basic health insurance, the high sum insured offered by private insurers can help them bear inflation–adjusted expenses.

This Vijay Diwas, take a moment to check up on the mental health of your loved ones and ensure they are equipped with health insurance.