Activity

  • cplenge replied to the topic What does the Army think about leaders with PTSD? in the forum Junior Officer 7 years, 3 months ago

    This is a great question and topic in general.  I cannot speak for the Army as a whole, but I can give an example from earlier in my career.  As a younger officer, I had a NCO that was very well respected within my organization.  Soldiers and NCOs looked up to him and officers valued his opinion.  This NCO would speak openly with the unit about seeking behavioral health counseling.  His treatment lasted some time and was while he was in a leadership role.  His openness broke down barriers within the unit and made it “safe” for others to seek help.  I can say for certain that some people only sought help because of this NCO’s example, including at least one person who was of a more senior rank.  I never saw a leader above him think of him in a negative way and I did not see any negative impacts on his career.  If anything, this made this NCO a better, more authentic leader.  He was able to help numerous people just by being open about his own need for help.  It is an example I try to follow to this day.