The Physiology of Combat Stress Reaction

Combat stress reactions appear to result from exposure to a perceived imminent threat of serious personal injury or death to oneself or others in a combat or combat-related situation. If you are in a combat situation, you may experience extreme or overwhelming physiological reactions in your body. This CSR affects your ability to function during the event and might also be re-experienced after the event, sometimes for many years. Until recently, a CSR was thought to be temporary, situation-specific, and without long-term or impact beyond the battlefield. Recent evidence shows that CSRs may be associated with serious long-term effects, and with potential earlier mortality. You may be able to counter the negative impact of a CSR by recognizing the signs and symptoms of a CSR quickly. Quick CSR recognition will help you take better care of yourself and those you care about.