8 th Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment (Para) Silent Struggles: DASS-21 Insights at Camp Terendak, Melaka

This study comprehensively assesses stress, anxiety, and depression among paratroopers from the 8 th Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment (Para), based at Kem Terendak, Melaka. A sample size of 371 paratroopers participated in the study. The Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) was employed to gauge the levels of stress, anxiety, and depression experienced by the paratroopers within this unique military context. The study results reveal that paratroopers in the 8 th Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment (Para) stationed at Terendak Camp exhibit an average level of stress, moderate anxiety, and mild depression. These findings offer valuable insights into the psychological well-being of these military personnel operating in a challenging and demanding environment. The implications of this study are significant. By highlighting the specific levels of stress, anxiety, and depression experienced by the paratroopers, the study contributes to a better understanding of the emotional dynamics within the 8 th Battalion. In response to these findings, the study summarizes recommendations to effectively manage and mitigate stress, anxiety, and depression among paratroopers. Ultimately, the study's focus on enhancing mental health and physical well-being aligns with the broader goal of optimizing paratroopers' performance and overall quality of life. By offering insights and actionable recommendations, this study serves as a valuable resource for the Royal Ranger Regiment (Para) and military organizations, fostering an environment that prioritizes the holistic well-being of its personnel.


Literature Review Stress, anxiety, and depression
The correlation between stress, anxiety, and depression has been extensively studied in the mental health field, and it has been established that these elements mutually affect the initiation and advancement of one another (Kendler et al., 2003).Cacha et al. (2019) suggest that stress can be characterized as a physical or psychological stimulus that disrupts the equilibrium of the body or mind.The impact of chronic or excessive stress on mental well-being can be significant, potentially leading to further mental health issues such as anxiety and depression (Giorgi et al., 2020).Anxiety is a psychological disorder characterized by excessive unease and fear.Various manifestations of this syndrome can be observed, encompassing generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder (Showraki, Showraki & Brown, 2020).Based on a study conducted by McLaughlin and Nolen-Hoeksema (2011), it has been observed through empirical data that anxiety disorders are frequently triggered by a range of stressors in individuals' lives.Depression, conversely, is commonly recognized as an effective disease that disrupts an individual's daily functioning.Individuals diagnosed with depression commonly exhibit symptoms including diminished engagement in daily activities, prolonged restlessness, alterations in appetite such as overeating or loss of appetite, persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, and emotional emptiness, sleep disturbances, impaired concentration, and other manifestations indicative of depression (Nuallaong, 2012).Depression in the workplace can be attributed to various job-related factors, including but not limited to, elevated job demands (Hatch et al., 2019), diminished job control (Li, 2019), an imbalance between work and personal life (Lee et al., 2021), unfavourable working conditions (Saah, Amu & Kissah-Korsah, 2021), a toxic work environment (Rasool et al., 2019), and incongruity between personal values or skills and job requirements (Petrisor et al., 2021).

Mental Health Issues in military
Mental health in the military holds significant significance, as it encompasses a diverse range of psychological and emotional difficulties linked explicitly to the military lifestyle.The rigorous requirements of training, the challenging circumstances of battle, prolonged separations from significant others, and the reintegration into civilian society can collectively contribute to mental health challenges among military personnel (Buechner, 2020).These challenges sometimes manifest as stress, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), among various other mental health disorders (Forbes et al., 2019;Shi et al., 2023).The comprehension and successful management of these problems hold significant relevance, not only for the well-being of military individuals but also for the overall effectiveness and adaptability of military forces.In contemporary times, there has been an increasing acknowledgment and execution of initiatives to mitigate mental health issues inside the military.Nevertheless, ongoing difficulties are associated with the societal stigmatization of mental health, the accessibility of mental health services, and the necessity for tailored therapeutic interventions (Bobbili et al., 2022).The complex and multifaceted nature of mental health challenges within the military is a defining characteristic of this phenomenon.Despite significant progress in understanding and addressing these challenges, persistent impediments remain.The continued emphasis on prioritizing accessible healthcare, education, support services, and destigmatization initiatives is crucial for advancing the overall well-being of military personnel.The path forward requires a comprehensive and sophisticated approach that considers the unique requirements and encounters faced by persons involved in military service.By emphasizing mental health more, military institutions can foster personnel that exhibit enhanced resilience, efficiency, and empathy.

Methodology
The present study employs a survey research methodology in the form of a quantitative investigation.The selected research methodology is survey research, which comprehensively assesses stress, anxiety, and depression among Paratroopers from the 8 th Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment (Para) based at Kem Terendak, Melaka.A sample size of 371 individuals was determined using the sample size chart developed by Krejcie and Morgan (1970).In order to mitigate any bias, the sample selection process was conducted using a basic random technique.The survey form was disseminated through the utilization of an online platform, explicitly employing the Google Forms method.Implementing an online platform facilitates the process of responding to research inquiries, allowing participants to respond to questions at their convenience.Additionally, researchers get research inquiries directly upon completion of respondents' answers.This survey comprises two distinct sections.The initial segment delves into pertinent inquiries, encompassing gender, age, length of service, education level, marital status, unit category, and rank.The ensuing section is tailored to gauge the burnout susceptibility of participants.For this specific study, the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales 21 (DASS-21), a validated questionnaire instrument acknowledged by the Ministry of Health Malaysia (2022), was employed.This tool quantitatively assesses stress, anxiety, and depression levels within the Paratrooper cohort.The questionnaire operates along three dimensions, with responses stratified into five intensity gradations: regular, low, moderate, high, and very high.

Analysis of Data
The present study employs data analysis techniques, specifically descriptive statistics and inferential statistics, utilizing the SPSS program version 28.Descriptive statistics involves summarizing and comprehending the features of a dataset by providing critical information about the sample and measurements.This analysis is commonly used to study demographic data from surveys.It focuses on metrics like mean, standard deviation, percentage, and frequency, which are utilized across various statistical levels.For this study, 371 Paratroopers from the 8 th Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment (Para) at Melaka Terendak Camp were included.The analysis included frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation measures.1 provides a concise overview of the descriptive analysis statistical testing, whereby the mean and standard deviation have been employed as measures to examine the data.The mean score level for each variable is determined by referring to the mean score interpretation table derived from the work of Nunnally and Bernstein (1994).The mean score level is categorized into four segments: medium-low, low, medium-high, and high.

Demographic characteristics of respondents
The demographic characteristics of the respondents are presented in Table 1.The study sample comprises exclusively male participants, with 369 male respondents and only two female participants.This study's findings indicate that most participants fell within the age range of 26 to 30 years.Furthermore, it was observed that 126 individuals had accumulated a service tenure of 6 to 10 years in the capacity of Paratroopers.The study's findings indicate that a significant proportion of participants have achieved the educational prerequisite of completing high school, specifically 350 individuals possessing the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) qualification.This study analyzed the participants' marital status, revealing that 366 individuals were identified as being married.The survey primarily featured respondents from the Komponi Bantuan, including 85 people, making them the most prominent participants in this research.) reported an elevated level of sadness.This observation demonstrates that while the degree of stress experienced by Paratroopers in the 8 th Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment (Para) remains manageable, their anxiety levels surpass their levels of depression.3, it can be observed that a significant factor contributing to stress among Paratroopers in the 8 th Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment (Para) is their struggle to achieve a state of calmness (mean = 1.671, s.d = 0.653), as indicated by a notably low mean score.Some individuals may attribute stress to a perceived lack of emotional regulation, resulting in heightened restlessness.The observation above indicates that the extent of emotional regulation within the 8 th Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment (Para) remains suboptimal, as evidenced by disrupted emotional control (mean = 1.404, s.d = 0.573).This lack of emotional composure poses challenges in maintaining a state of tranquillity and contributes to heightened restlessness among the Paratroopers.3 presents the characteristics indicating the extent of anxiety observed among the Paratroopers in the 8 th Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment (Para).One notable issue contributing to this anxiety is the phenomenon of reduced body resistance, resulting in a heightened susceptibility to dry mouth among the soldiers (mean = 1.523, s.d = 0.654).Furthermore, a limited subset of participants reported abrupt onset of anxiety or apprehension without identifiable causes (mean = 1.523, standard deviation = 0.654).The presented evidence indicates the presence of anxiety symptoms within the Paratroopers of the 8 th Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment (Para).However, the degree of worry is relatively modest.The data presented in Table 4 provides an overview of the variables indicative of the degree of depression experienced by Paratroopers within the 8 th Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment (Para).One contributing factor to depressive symptoms among individuals is the perception of an inability to experience good emotions (mean = 1.434, s.d = 0.595).This finding suggests that individuals tend to feel diminished levels of positive motivation in isolation.This phenomenon could lead to decreased motivation among individuals to engage in their professional tasks.A minority of the sample population perceive lacking purpose or significance in their lives (mean = 1.262, s.d = 0.508).The data indicates that Paratroopers in the 8 th Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment (Para) who perceive a lack of purpose in life have a significantly low mean score, suggesting a manifestation of depressive symptoms.

Discussion
The study's classification of the stress level as usual among the Paratroopers in the 8 th Battalion is reassuring regarding operational readiness.However, the unsatisfactory level of emotional control identified is a critical concern.This deficiency in emotional control could impair cognitive abilities and decision-making, contributing to the observed tendency towards restlessness and difficulties in executing tasks (Stanley & Larsen, 2021).Strategies to enhance emotional regulation may be required to address these issues.A more alarming finding from the study is the presence of moderate anxiety among most Paratroopers, with some reporting unexplained levels of anxiety or fear.Observing that some members quickly experience dry mouth, which indicates anxiety, hints at physiological manifestations of this condition.While the study characterizes the level of concern as relatively minimal, any indication of anxiety within a military context can have substantial implications.Anxiety can affect focus, reaction times, and teamwork (Orasanu & Backer, 2013).Understanding the root causes related to training, deployment experiences, or other factors is essential for targeted interventions.The report of mild depression among most members, with feelings of lack of positive emotions, less enthusiasm to work, and in some cases, a sense of meaningless existence, is deeply concerning.Depression can severely impact motivation, performance, and well-being (Lin et al., 2017).Depression in a military context might be linked to factors such as strenuous training, separation from family, exposure to traumatic experiences, or lack of social support within the unit.Targeted mental health support, counseling, and fostering a positive organizational culture may be required to address this challenge.

Recommendation
The 8 th Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment (Para) exhibits a distinctive combination of typical stress levels and difficulties in emotional regulation, heightened anxiety, and symptoms of depression.The intricate interaction between several factors indicates the presence of fundamental problems that cannot be effectively addressed with a universally applicable remedy.In order to effectively tackle the interrelated elements at hand, it is imperative to adopt a comprehensive strategy that considers the unique circumstances and requirements of the unit.The subsequent suggestions offer specific tactics for improving the Paratroopers' psychological well-being and effectiveness.First, implementing programs aimed at teaching emotional management skills should be prioritized by the highest governing body of the Malaysian army.This measure can potentially improve the soldiers' resilience and performance.Secondly, entities like the Human Resources Branch of the Malaysian Army must investigate the precise factors contributing to anxiety within their unit.Subsequently, they should develop targeted treatments, potentially incorporating mindfulness techniques or professional counseling, to address this issue effectively.This methodology can potentially address and effectively mitigate anxiety levels within military personnel.Lastly, every administration level should provide mental health support and counseling, create peer support networks, and focus on leadership training in emotional intelligence to ease depressive symptoms.Regular mental health assessments, anonymous surveys, or well-being check-ins should be conducted to ensure early detection and assistance for emerging mental health concerns.

Conclusion
The obstacles encountered by the 8 th Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment (Para) are not impossible to overcome.Demonstrating dedication, compassion, and a thorough comprehension of the intricate mental health terrain, the 8 th Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment (Para) possesses the necessary resources and determination to effect enduring change.By adopting the proposed guidelines, all levels of administration have the potential to make valuable contributions toward enhancing the strength, resilience, and emotional intelligence of the organization.The procedures delineated are not solely considered treatments; instead, they represent a strategic allocation of resources towards enhancing physical and mental welfare, boosting morale, and ultimately fostering our military personnel's overall effectiveness and accomplishments.Collectively, it is possible to cultivate a conducive atmosphere that acknowledges and addresses the distinct requirements of individuals engaged in service, guaranteeing their comprehensive physical and mental readiness to confront the challenges associated with their responsibilities effectively.With a clearly defined purpose, it is essential to acknowledge that the decisions made in the present have the potential to significantly influence the Malaysian military's future, thereby improving its overall vitality, well-being, and operational efficiency.

Table 1 :
Mean score interpretation for descriptive analysis

Table 1
DASS-21 Test Paratroopers in the 8 th Battalion of the Royal RangerRegiment (Para)

Table 2 :
DASS-21 Test in Paratroopers in the 8 th Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment (Para)According to the data presented in Table2, most Paratroopers in the 8 th Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment (Para) reported experiencing an average stress level (f = 119, 32.1%).This was followed by 76 individuals (20.5%) who reported a low level of stress, 54 individuals (14.6%) who reported a moderate level of stress, 105 individuals (28.3%) who reported a high level of stress, and a mere 17 individuals (4.6%) who reported a very high level of stress.
Regarding the participants' anxiety levels, most individuals exhibit a moderate level of anxiety (f = 171, 46.1%), while a significant proportion experience a very high level of anxiety (f = 139, 37.5%).Out of the total sample size, 61 individuals, including 16.4% of the participants, exhibit high anxiety.Notably, none of the respondents demonstrate typical or moderate levels of worry.Regarding the severity of depression, most 254 participants (68.5%) reported suffering from severe depression.Additionally, a subset of 77 participants (20.8%) reported a very high degree of depression, while around 40 participants (10.8%

Table 3 :
Mean value, standard deviation, and mean estimate for stress

Table 3 :
Mean value, standard deviation, and mean estimate for anxiety No.

Table 4 :
Mean value, standard deviation, and mean estimate for depression No.