AFI44-153 — Disaster Mental Health Response & Combat and Operational Stress Control

AFI44-153 governs Disaster Mental Health Response and Combat and Operational Stress Control programs across the Air Force.

Search AFI44-153

  • Publication number: AFI44-153
  • Title: Disaster Mental Health Response & Combat and Operational Stress Control
  • Date: 2020-04-13

View AFI44-153 on armypubs.army.mil


It covers disaster mental health, DMH teams and services, combat and operational stress control, redeployment, and related training. It requires compliance with the publication and establishes guidance for DMHR teams at active duty Air Force installations.

Topics covered

  • Disaster Mental Health
  • DMH teams
  • Psychological first aid
  • Combat and Operational Stress Control
  • COSC training
  • Redeployment
  • Pre-Exposure Preparation

Questions and answers

Who can approve waivers under AFI44-153?

The authorities to waiver wing/unit level requirements in this publication are identified with a Tier number following the compliance statement.

How must waiver requests under AFI44-153 be submitted?

Submit requests for waivers through the chain of command to the appropriate Tier waiver approval authority, or alternately, to the Publication OPR for non-tiered compliance items.

How does AFI44-153 address stress reactions?

Most individuals respond to challenging life events without significant negative consequences.

What is the purpose of Disaster Mental Health and Combat and Operational Stress Control?

Disaster Mental Health (DMH) and Combat and Operational Stress Control (COSC) are two methods to proactively respond to these incidents and minimize the likelihood of longstanding or debilitating stress reactions.

What training changes did AFI44-153 incorporate?

Combat Stress Control (CSC) and Combat Operations Stress Control (COSC) training requirements were incorporated to bring into compliance with DoDI 6490.05.

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