Operator Syndrome

Step into the hidden world of elite warriors—Green Berets, Navy SEALs, Air Force PJs, Marine Raiders, etc.—who are haunted by a unique constellation of injuries, born out of years, even decades, of fighting the Global War on Terror. Operator Syndrome identifies and describes the profound impact that years of extreme sacrifice have had on our military special operators and their loved ones.

Drawing upon his thirty years of experience with clinical trials, historical epidemiology, and neuroscience research—as well as a decade of applied efforts with special operators across all branches of the U.S. military—acclaimed clinical psychologist Chris Frueh, Ph.D., uncovers a pattern of interrelated afflictions: traumatic brain injury, hormonal dysregulation, sleep apnea, chronic pain, depression, anger, insomnia, addiction, existential angst, and more.

Dr. Frueh guides us through the harrowing terrain of Operator Syndrome. He provides a roadmap to understand its multifaceted origins and complex effects on every biological system in the body—as well as the social systems of family, work, and the indifferent society these warriors return to. He explains how modern healthcare systems, especially Veterans Affairs, have too often relied on the PTSD "easy button" and failed a generation of men and women who have carried the brunt of the fight since 9/11.

Frueh shines a bright and empathic light on the silent struggles of a community with a "never quit" mindset. Most importantly, he provides real solutions, lifestyle adaptations, and step-by-step treatment strategies that have worked for hundreds of operators, saving lives and giving hope to families.