Peacekeeping
The role of peacekeeping in a military context has shifted over time since the inception of the United Nations in 1945. Over the last few decades, peacekeepers have increasingly been deployed to areas with active hostilities. As a result of this shift, peacekeepers are at high risk for exposure to typical warzone stressors such as life threat, as well as stressors unique to peacekeeping missions, such as role conflicts. Despite these risks, most service members deployed on peace enforcement missions tend to adapt well and report positive outcomes. However, some peacekeepers develop mental health problems such as posttraumatic stress disorder. Moving forward, it is important to appreciate and attend to the mental health needs of service members deployed to peacekeeping missions.
