OPERATION: RECOVERY
P T s d
Research indicates that as many as a third of veterans experience mental health problems including PTSD.
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can occur following a life-threatening event like military combat, natural disasters, terrorist incidents, serious accidents, or violent personal assaults like rape, reports the US Army at https://www.militaryonesource.mil/ Most survivors of trauma return to normal given a little time. However, some people have stress reactions that don’t go away on their own, or may even get worse over time. These individuals may develop PTSD.
People who suffer from PTSD often suffer from nightmares, flashbacks, difficulty sleeping, and feeling emotionally numb. These symptoms can significantly impair a person’s daily life because they may include nightmares or unwanted memories of the trauma, avoidance of situations that bring back memories of the trauma, heightened reactions, anxiety, or depressed mood. The disorder is also associated with difficulties in social or family life, including occupational instability, marital problems, family discord, and difficulties in parenting.
Research indicates that as many as 50 percent of veterans experience significant difficulty acclimating with a third developing mental health problems including PTSD, anxiety disorders and depression. For more information, click HERE.
Resources:
Each Veterans Administration medical center has PTSD specialists who provide treatment for Veterans with PTSD. Plus, the VA provides nearly 200 specialized PTSD treatment programs. A referral is usually needed to access the specialty programs.
The VA offers several PTSD treatment options, including medical, mental health, and family services.
Check out the VA’s PTSD website for details.
NOTE: If you are in crisis dial 911 or 800-273-TALK (800-273-8255).