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Intelligence analysts immerse themselves in brutality for their jobs. They deploy to war zones, watch videos of terrorists beheading prisoners, and review detailed accounts of atrocities.
Researchers at RAND interviewed current and former intelligence professionals about their experiences with trauma and traumatic stress. They found that analysts need more support—before they reach their breaking point.
RAND's Karen Sudkamp, lead author of the study and a former intelligence analyst, did hit a breaking point. “I thought I was fine until that one day when it was very clear that I wasn't,” she said.
There are barriers that prevent intelligence professionals from getting help: They can't discuss classified information with others, they fear that seeking help will endanger their security clearances, and the agencies they work for don't do enough to promote a workplace culture that supports mental health.
These findings should push intelligence agencies to increase their efforts to understand the traumas their analysts face and what they can do to help.
For Sudkamp's part, the study helped her realize she wasn't alone: “It wasn't my fault. I worked with amazing people in the intel community who, day in and day out, are doing their jobs, trying to protect the country. We need to take care of them so they can fulfill that mission.”
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