Shows
Psychiatric CasualtiesFinal Reflections – A Call for ChangeIn this poignant final episode of Psychiatric Casualties, hosts Mark Russell and Charles Figley are joined by special guest Kathy Figley for a powerful and emotional close to their podcast journey. Together, they reflect on the stories, challenges, and revelations they’ve shared while confronting the chronic neglect of mental health in the military.
Drawing from their book and years of advocacy, the trio revisits major insights from their work—highlighting systemic failures, personal battles, and the urgent need for reform. More than a summary, this episode is a passionate call to a...2025-04-2446 minPsychiatric CasualtiesBreaking down the Barriers for ChangeMark, Charles and Kat confront one of the most pressing and persistent issues facing our armed forces: the chronic neglect of military mental health care.
As this series is coming to the last two episodes, Mark prepares to step away from the podcast, he reflects on his personal journey—one that began with the invasion of Iraq in 2003 and has been defined by a steadfast commitment to advocating for mental health reform. Together, the hosts take a hard look at the barriers to change, from entrenched stigma to slow-moving policy, and the immense toll this neglect has ta...2025-04-1853 minPsychiatric CasualtiesA Call for Mental Health Reform in the MilitaryMark, Charles and Kat confront one of the most pressing and persistent issues facing our armed forces: the chronic neglect of military mental health care.
In this second to last episode of this series, Mark prepares to step away from the podcast, he reflects on his personal journey—one that began with the invasion of Iraq in 2003 and has been defined by a steadfast commitment to advocating for mental health reform. Together, the hosts take a hard look at the barriers to change, from entrenched stigma to slow-moving policy, and the immense toll this neglect has taken on...2025-04-1853 minPsychiatric CasualtiesLasting Impact and Emerging ChangesIn this episode, Charles, Mark and Kat tackle the complex dynamics of military mental health care and its evolution over the years. They discuss the lasting impact of wars, particularly the Persian Gulf and Vietnam, on mental health practices in the military and how these lessons have influenced civilian mental health care. The conversation touches on the stigma surrounding mental health in the military, the challenges of trauma, and the innovations that have emerged to address these issues. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the intersection of military service and mental health.
Key Topics Covered:2025-03-2737 minPsychiatric CasualtiesThe Ongoing Fight for Veteran Mental HealthMark, Charles and Kat discuss the progress made over the years, the lessons learned from past wars, and the ongoing challenges faced by veterans today.
With a focus on resilience and the importance of mental well-being, this episode sheds light on how the military can serve as a model for broader societal mental health care. From understanding trauma and treatment to the pressing need for continued advocacy, this conversation unpacks the complexities of mental health in the armed forces and beyond.
Key Topics Discussed:
The evolution of military mental health careLessons from...2025-03-1636 minPsychiatric CasualtiesWhy the Military is the best candidate for the JobMark, Charles and Kathy embark on a critical discussion about the cyclical pattern of indifference that follows wartime crises. They delve into the concept of the 'national reset,' where the military's focus shifts away from mental health once public and media attention wanes. Together they explore the implications of this neglect not only within the military but also its impact on civilian society, highlighting the urgent need for a cultural shift in how we perceive and prioritize mental health. Tune in for insights, personal anecdotes, and a vision for a future where mental health is treated with the...2025-03-0528 minPsychiatric CasualtiesA Need for a Cultural Shift towards Mental HealthCharles, Mark and Kat explore the chronic indifference towards mental health in the military, tracing its roots through generational patterns of preventable crises. With insights from their extensive research and personal experiences, they discuss the stigma surrounding mental health, the lack of resources, and the need for a cultural shift within the military to prioritize mental health alongside physical health. Join us as we delve into the complexities of mental health care in the military and the profound implications it has on service members and their families.
Have questions? Experiences? Email Mark and Charles at mrussellphd@gmail...2025-02-1941 minPsychiatric CasualtiesThe Evolution of Practices and the ongoing battle for Adequate CareIn this episode Charles, Mark and Kathy are touching thought provoking content and some my find it triggering. Please be aware!
Your hosts are focusing on the experimental and sometimes dangerous treatments used throughout history. From electric shock therapy to prefrontal lobotomies, we explore the drastic measures once employed to address conditions like PTSD. Their discussion highlights the military's unique approach to mental health, including the controversial 'frontline psychiatry' methods developed during World War I. Mark, Charles and Kat also examine the implications of prolonged combat exposure and the importance of monitoring deployment durations.
Have...2025-01-3128 minPsychiatric CasualtiesSystemic failures and potential solutions for Military Mental HeathcareMark and Charles, along with special guest Kathy Figley, discuss the parallels between military and disaster management mental health issues and shedding light on the stigma and systemic failures that prevent effective treatment. The discussion highlights historical lessons from World Wars, the controversial practice of 'watchful waiting,' and the reliance on medication over psychotherapy. The episode underscores the urgent need for change and the importance of acknowledging and addressing these persistent issues.
Have questions? Experiences? Email Mark and Charles at mrussellphd@gmail.com. Your engagement can help pave the way for a future where military mental...2025-01-2236 minPsychiatric CasualtiesThe Bystander EffectDiscover why the military continues to ignore the full cost of war and how a Behavioral Health Corps could be the solution to this pressing issue. With insights from over 214 investigations and comparisons to international military practices, this episode sheds light on the urgent need for change. Don't miss this compelling discussion on the invisible wounds of war.
Table of Contents for Discussion
For further insights and to join the conversation, reach out to Mark at mrussellphd@gmail.com. Your engagement can help pave the way for a future where military mental health is no l...2025-01-0349 minPsychiatric CasualtiesAccountability within Military Mental HealthIn this compelling episode of Psychiatric Casualties, Mark and Charles explore the chronic lack of accountability within the military's mental health system, discussing the failure to learn from past war trauma lessons and the resulting generational crises. The episode highlights the fragmented organizational structure that prevents effective mental health management and accountability. Join the conversation as they uncover the dark strategies employed by the military to avoid responsibility and the urgent need for structural reform.
Table of Contents for Discussion
For further insights and to join the conversation, reach out to Mark at mrussellphd@gmail.c...2024-12-2552 minPsychiatric CasualtiesPart two of Faulty Diagnosis and Backdoor DischargesMark and Charles continue the second part of discussion into the controversial topic of faulty diagnoses and backdoor discharges. They explore the historical and ongoing neglect of veterans suffering from conditions like PTSD, examining how military policies have prioritized expediency over proper care. With insights from congressional investigations and historical documents, they reveal the systemic issues that continue to affect veterans today. Join the discussion as they advocate for awareness and change in military mental health policies.
Have questions? Experiences? Email Mark and Charles at mrussellphd@gmail.com. Your engagement can help pave the way for a...2024-12-1352 minPsychiatric CasualtiesSystemic Issues of Faulty Diagnosis and Backdoor DischargesMark and Charles dig into the dark side strategies of military mental health care, focusing on the systemic issues of faulty diagnosis and backdoor discharges. As they navigate through Chapter 9 of their book, they shed light on how the military's implicit policies have historically neglected the psychiatric needs of service members, leading to unjust discharges and a lack of support for veterans. With personal anecdotes and historical context, they explore the evolution of military mental health policies and the ongoing challenges faced by veterans seeking justice and support. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the...2024-11-2951 minPsychiatric CasualtiesTransparency and Accountability of Learned Lessons of WarThis week's episode pivots around the military's tactics of delay and deception in addressing the psychological impact of warfare, exploring how these issues ripple through generations of military families. They discuss the historical context of mental health care in the military, revealing shocking truths about the lack of transparency and accountability. As they navigate through personal anecdotes and professional insights, they call for a cultural shift in how mental health is perceived and treated within the armed forces. This episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in the well-being of veterans and their families, as well as those interested...2024-11-0857 minPsychiatric CasualtiesAvoidance Strategy ~ Delay, Deceive and Delay AgainMark Russell and Charles Figley explore the military's strategies of delay and deception in addressing psychiatric casualties of war, as detailed in Chapter 8 of their book. Mark highlights the systemic issues that prevent effective mental health care for service members. The discussion sheds light on the historical and ongoing challenges faced by the military in acknowledging and addressing the psychological costs of warfare.
Defense Casualty Analysis System
https://dcas.dmdc.osd.mil/dcas/app/home
For further insights and to join the conversation, reach out to Mark at mrussellphd@gmail...2024-10-2545 minPsychiatric CasualtiesFlawed Policies and StigmaIn this episode, Mark and Charles explore the historical context of psychiatric screenings, the purging of perceived weaknesses, and the staggering rates of psychiatric casualties from the Civil War to modern-day conflicts. The discussion highlights the flawed policies, the stigmatization of mental health, and the hidden PTSD among elite forces. Tune in for a compelling examination of how war impacts the human psyche and the urgent need for better mental health support in the military.
Table of Contents for Discussion
For further insights and to join the conversation, reach out to Mark at mrussellphd@gmail.c...2024-10-0447 minPsychiatric CasualtiesPurging Weakness & Pension Trauma DebateMark and Charles talk about Chapter 7 of their book, "Psychiatric Casualties," focusing on the military's strategy of purging weakness to avoid learning from war trauma. They discuss the historical context of trauma pension debates, the ineffectiveness of psychiatric screenings, and the ongoing struggle to recognize PTSD as legitimate suffering. The episode also highlights the military's reluctance to address mental health issues and the consequences of ignoring these critical lessons.
Table of Contents for Discussion
For further insights and to join the conversation, reach out to Mark at mrussellphd@gmail.com. Your engagement can help pave t...2024-09-2059 minPsychiatric CasualtiesThe Cost of Denial: Adaptive and Maladaptive DenialToday's episode taps into the discussion of the historical context of denial in military mental health, the consequences of this denial, and the ongoing challenges faced by service members. Mark and Charles also touch on their personal anecdotes, the role of denial in both adaptive and maladaptive forms, and the importance of accountability and systemic change.
Table of Contents for Discussion
For further insights and to join the conversation, reach out to Mark at mrussellphd@gmail.com. Your engagement can help pave the way for a future where military mental health is no longer a s...2024-09-0648 minPsychiatric CasualtiesThe Hidden Costs of WarIn this episode, Charles Figley, along with Mark Russell and Kathy Regan Figley, discuss the chronic neglect of psychiatric casualties and how the military frequently ignores the full cost of war. The conversation touches on a range of topics, including traumatic memories, fear-related symptoms, and the systemic issues that prevent proper mental health care for service members. The episode also highlights historical and contemporary examples of how denial and ineffective methods have impaired trust and caused considerable harm to military personnel. Join the discussion to gain a deeper understanding of the mental health challenges faced by veterans and the...2024-08-2356 minPsychiatric CasualtiesWeaponizing Stigma Part IIIn this episode, Kathy Figley joins Mark and Charles in focusing on the stigmatization and systemic barriers that prevent service members from seeking necessary treatment. Kathy, who brings her unique perspective as a wife, first responder, and traumatologist works collectively with Mark and Charles as they explore the dark side strategies used to weaponize stigma, the historical context of these practices, and the contemporary challenges faced by active duty members and veterans. The discussion covers alarming statistics, personal anecdotes, and potential solutions, emphasizing the need for a zero-tolerance policy towards mental health stigma in the military.
Table...2024-08-0251 minPsychiatric CasualtiesWeaponizing StigmaIn this powerful episode, Mark and Charles talk about weaponizing stigma with special guest Kathy, a seasoned mental health professional and disaster responder. Together, they explore the institutional, public, and self-stigma that surrounds mental health in the military, drawing parallels with first responders and disaster workers. Through personal anecdotes and historical references, they uncover the detrimental effects of weaponized stigma and discuss potential paths forward.
Table of Contents for Discussion
For further insights and to join the conversation, reach out to Mark at mrussellphd@gmail.com. Your engagement can...2024-07-1946 min
The Whole Care NetworkThe Facts Do Not Lie. Why Military Mental Health Has Never Worked. Veterans and Researchers Mark Russell and Charles Figley.Dee Tox engages in a dialogue with two esteemed guests, Dr. Mark Russell and Dr. Charles Figley., both Veterans and clinical psychologists. They bring an unparalleled depth of experience and insight to the conversation about military mental health, trauma, and the systemic issues that perpetuate a cycle of neglect within the armed forces.
Together, they've penned "Psychiatric Casualties," a book that is both a historical chronicle and a clarion call for change. It's a meticulous dissection of the military's recurring missteps in managing war stress issues, backed by a staggering amount of research and evidence. This episode...2024-07-031h 03Psychiatric CasualtiesPost War Anger and the Veteran Treatment Court System"Less than 1% of our society today decides to join the military, and I think it justifies providing differential treatment towards veterans, particularly combat veterans." ~ Mark Russell
In today’s episode, Mark Russell and Charles Figley discuss the weaponization of the criminal justice system against Veterans and share personal anecdotes of post-war anger and aggression. The conversation highlights the historical and ongoing failures in addressing mental health issues within the military, the innovative yet underutilized Veterans Treatment Courts, and the need for a more compassionate and therapeutic approach towards Veterans.
Table of Contents fo...2024-06-2840 minPsychiatric CasualtiesLegal Prosecution, Incarceration and Executions of Mental IllnessA clinical discussion exploring the historical and ongoing neglect of psychiatric issues among military personnel, highlighting the severe consequences of this neglect through various wars, including World War II, Vietnam, and the recent conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. Discover the dark side of military discipline, the cruel treatments meted out to those suffering from war stress injuries, and the ethical dilemmas faced by military commanders.
Table of Contents for Discussion
For further insights and to join the conversation, reach out to Mark at mrussellphd@gmail.com. Your engagement can help pave the...2024-06-1439 minPsychiatric CasualtiesHistorical Use of Punishment to maintain Discipline Among the RanksSome of the content in this episode may be disturbing to some of the listeners. Please be aware.
In this raw and revealing episode, Mark Russell and Charles Figley tackle the harrowing subject of military mental health and the cruel punishments historically used to maintain discipline within the ranks. As they dig into the third chapter of their book, 'Psychiatric Casualties,' they uncover the dark strategies employed by the military to handle psychiatric casualties—from corporal punishment to the caging of marines.
This episode is to acknowledge the full cost of wa...2024-05-3053 min
Bullets 2 BedpansThe Facts Do Not Lie. Why Military Mental Health Has Never Worked. Veterans and Researchers Mark Russell and Charles Figley.Dee Tox engages in a dialogue with two esteemed guests, Dr. Mark Russell and Dr. Charles Figley., both Veterans and clinical psychologists. They bring an unparalleled depth of experience and insight to the conversation about military mental health, trauma, and the systemic issues that perpetuate a cycle of neglect within the armed forces.
Together, they've penned "Psychiatric Casualties," a book that is both a historical chronicle and a clarion call for change. It's a meticulous dissection of the military's recurring missteps in managing war stress issues, backed by a staggering amount of research and evidence. This episode...2024-05-221h 03Psychiatric CasualtiesCruel and Inhumane HandlingJoin Mark and Charles as they explore the shadows of military history, uncovering the stark reality of psychiatric neglect in the armed forces. In this episode your hosts explore Chapter 3 of their book, "Cruel and Inhumane Handling," shedding light on the military's failure to address the full cost of war on soldiers' mental health.
Hear the chilling accounts of ancient and historical practices of punishment for those deemed weak or cowardly, from the Roman legions to the American Civil War. Discover the troubling legacy of branding, barreling, and flogging, and how these brutal tactics aimed to maintain...2024-05-1751 min
The Whole Care NetworkThe Dark Side Part II: Coping with Mental AnguishMark Russell and Charles Figley unpack the complexities of psychiatric casualties, exploring the full scope of mental health crises and the systemic failures in addressing them. From cultural idioms of distress to the mislabeling of combat veterans, they shine a light on the urgent need for a holistic approach to military mental health care.
They navigate the intricate web of neuropsychiatric diagnoses, the stigmatization of mental health issues, and the dire consequences of untreated psychological injuries. This episode serves as a stark reminder of the real and devastating impact of chronic stress on our service members, and...2024-05-081h 03Psychiatric CasualtiesCoping with Mental Anguish and Untreated Psychological InjuriesMark Russell and Charles Figley unpack the complexities of psychiatric casualties, exploring the full scope of mental health crises and the systemic failures in addressing them. From cultural idioms of distress to the mislabeling of combat veterans, they shine a light on the urgent need for a holistic approach to military mental health care.
They navigate the intricate web of neuropsychiatric diagnoses, the stigmatization of mental health issues, and the dire consequences of untreated psychological injuries. This episode serves as a stark reminder of the real and devastating impact of chronic stress on our service members, and...2024-05-031h 03Psychiatric CasualtiesThe Dark Side of Military Mental HealthIn episode 5 Mark and Charles unravel the complex tapestry of war's psychological toll. They shed light on the broad spectrum of conditions that afflict service members beyond PTSD, including medically unexplained physical symptoms, neuropsychiatric diagnoses, and traumatic grief reactions.
This discussion is not just a critique but a call to action, highlighting the dire need for comprehensive mental health care that honors the full cost of war. It's a sobering reminder that the battle doesn't end when the war does, and the scars of conflict extend far beyond the physical.
For anyone...2024-04-1851 min
The Whole Care NetworkEvolution of Military PsychiatryJoin Dr. Mark Russell and Dr. Charles Figley as they navigate the complex history of military mental health, uncovering the silent suffering behind the heroism. Their conversation takes a critical look at the evolution of military psychiatry, from the days of the Civil War to our contemporary conflicts, and the often-overlooked psychological traumas that accompany them.
Mark and Charles will bring these crucial conversations to the forefront, honoring the full spectrum of sacrifice made by our military personnel.
Table of Contents for Discussion
Have questions, thoughts or suggestions on topics? Email Mark at...2024-04-1157 minPsychiatric CasualtiesEvolution of Military PsychiatryJoin Dr. Mark Russell and Dr. Charles Figley as they navigate the complex history of military mental health, uncovering the silent suffering behind the heroism. Their conversation takes a critical look at the evolution of military psychiatry, from the days of the Civil War to our contemporary conflicts, and the often-overlooked psychological traumas that accompany them.
Mark and Charles will bring these crucial conversations to the forefront, honoring the full spectrum of sacrifice made by our military personnel.
Table of Contents for Discussion
For further insights and...2024-04-0557 minPsychiatric CasualtiesA War to Die For: Combat and Mental HealthJoin Mark and Charles on a journey through time as they trace the roots of military medicine back to Roman legions, navigating the delicate balance between maintaining an effective fighting force and providing essential mental health support. They trace the silhouette of war’s psychological toll that unravels the changing perceptions and legal battles that have shaped how we view and treat our warriors' invisible wounds.
Table of Contents for Discussion
Have questions, thoughts or suggestions on topics? Email Mark at mrussellphd@gmail.com
Tune into our ...2024-03-2154 minPsychiatric CasualtiesThe Unseen Battle Scars of the MindWar wounds are not always visible, and the battle scars of the mind can be as debilitating as any physical injury. Mark and Charles open up a long-overdue discussion on the unseen struggles of military mental health, tracing the historical neglect and systemic shortcomings in armed forces' approaches. The conversation is both a history lesson and a current affairs class, as we uncover declassified documents and share from-the-front anecdotes that reveal the stark contrast between lessons learned from physical warfare and the often-ignored psychological aftereffects. Mark and Charles shed light on the depth of these issues, from the repeated...2024-02-2957 min
The Whole Care NetworkMeet Mark Russell and Charles FigleyThe psychological toll of war is vast, and the social costs of war’s psychiatric casualties extend even further. Yet military mental health care suffers from extensive waiting lists, organizational scandals, spikes in veteran suicide, narcotic over prescription, shortages of mental health professionals, and inadequate treatment. The prevalence of conditions such as post–traumatic stress disorder is often underestimated, and there remains an entrenched stigma and fear of being diagnosed. Even more alarming is how the military dismisses or conceals the significance and extent of the mental health crisis.
The trauma experts Mark C. Russell and Charles Figl...2024-02-2855 minPsychiatric CasualtiesMeet Mark Russell and Charles FigleyThe psychological toll of war is vast, and the social costs of war’s psychiatric casualties extend even further. Yet military mental health care suffers from extensive waiting lists, organizational scandals, spikes in veteran suicide, narcotic over prescription, shortages of mental health professionals, and inadequate treatment. The prevalence of conditions such as post–traumatic stress disorder is often underestimated, and there remains entrenched stigma and fear of being diagnosed. Even more alarming is how the military dismisses or conceals the significance and extent of the mental health crisis.
The trauma experts Mark C. Russell and...2024-02-2355 min