AOCOPM 2024 Midyear Educational Conference-346719

346719 - Article 6

Pdf Summary

Military drone operators face unique psychological challenges due to the nature of their work, which involves remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) operations. Unlike traditional combat personnel, drone operators often work in enclosed environments for extended periods, witnessing real-time combat and its aftermath through screens without being physically present on the battlefield. Despite their distance from direct combat, they are fully engaged in combat operations, such as tracking, targeting, and sometimes killing enemy combatants. This leads to specific stressors and psychiatric concerns.<br /><br />Common psychiatric issues among RPA operators include emotional disengagement, exhaustion, burnout, and symptoms of PTSD, although formal PTSD diagnosis is rare. Many drone operators experience high levels of psychological distress, partly due to witnessing deaths, including those of civilians and allies, and feeling a lack of camaraderie and recognition that traditional combat personnel receive. <br /><br />The mental health of drone operators is further complicated by rotating shifts, sleep deprivation, and an environment that offers no clear end to their deployment, as missions run 24/7. This can result in symptoms like insomnia, irritability, concentration difficulties, and feelings of isolation. Moreover, moral injury, stemming from actions that conflict with personal values, adds another layer of psychological strain.<br /><br />Risk factors for developing such psychiatric issues include younger age, lengthy tenure as an RPA operator, witnessing many traumatic events, and possessing certain personality traits such as a conscientious disposition. Identifying and treating these issues requires comprehensive screening for psychological distress, including assessments for substance use and the application of therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Additionally, medications like sertraline and paroxetine may be used for specific disorders. Addressing these concerns is crucial for the well-being of military drone operators.

Keywords

drone operators

psychological challenges

RPA operations

PTSD symptoms

emotional disengagement

moral injury

sleep deprivation

psychological distress

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

military mental health