Combat / Operational Stress, or COS, is the sum of physical and emotional stress resulting from combat or other military activities. Combat / Operational Stress Reaction, COSR, is the broad group of physical, emotional, and mental signs that results from COS.
What exactly is Combat / Operational Stress Reaction?
Combat / Operational Stress Reaction is something that ALL soldiers experience after combat. They are normal reactions for high stress situations.
Some of the reactions can include:
- Feeling detached from your family and friends
- Not feeling comfortable in large crowds
- Feeling worried, overwhelmed, depressed, irritable, and frustrated
- Loss of interest or motivation
- Difficulty talking about what you experienced in combat
- Feeling jumpy or easily startled
How is COSR different from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?
Reactions to combat stress are normal. Although a soldier can feel uncomfortable or worried, it is natural and is not a cause for alarm. There are many easy steps to take to help the soldier redeploy successfully.
However, if these reactions start to interfere with the soldier’s ability to do daily activities, it might be Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. If the reactions listed above are severe and last longer than six to eight weeks, then it is time to get professional help.
How can you help a soldier with COSR?
The most important thing is to make sure the soldier feels safe and their basic comfort is met. Sometimes, the soldier needs to see a mental health professional or counselor. Medication may also help. Like PTSD, there are professionals in Jefferson County and on Fort Drum that can help.
Combat / Operational Stress Links
Army Behavioral Health COS General Information
U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine Combat / Operational Stress Control