Psychological Morbidity During The 2002 Deployment To Afghanistan

Abstract: Questionnaires were completed by military personnel on arrival (n=1,696) in Kabul, Afghanistan and then again on departure (n=1,134). Analysis of the 113 personnel who completed both the arrivals and departures questionnaire revealed a lower alcohol use score after deployment (AUDIT mean difference (post-deployment – pre-deployment) = -0.39, 95% confidence interval (Cl) = - 1.25 - +0.47) and no significant change to mental health (GHQ mean difference = 0.55, 95% Cl = –0.07 – +1.17). An increase in psychosomatic symptoms (GHQ A mean difference = 0.22, 95% Cl = –0.03 - +0.47) is considered to result from the adverse conditions, but it is not supported by other mental ill health markers. In conclusion, there appeared to be no negative effect on mental health from deployment to Afghanistan.