Switched-On Magazine

Since the beginning of the current wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, the number of military members with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has increased dramatically.  The Army's first study of the mental health of troops who fought in Iraq found that about one in eight reported symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.  This is due to their increased involvement in combat scenarios.  PTSD is an anxiety disorder that can develop after exposure to a terrifying event or ordeal the risk of severe injury or death was imminent.  Traumatic events that may trigger PTSD include violent personal assaults, natural or human-caused disasters, accidents, or military combat. 

Mainly, many soldiers see disturbing images during war and it stays with them. Many people will have symptoms such as flashbacks, physical symptoms like a racing heart or sweating, bad dreams, and frightening thoughts. Symptoms can get worse and sometimes will. There are many types of treatments to help with this disorder like medications or therapy.

When a servicemember does come home there are many challenges for their families.  Sometimes it is hard for the veteran to talk about the PTSD, because it may be perceived as being weak.  Other times it's just hard to understand what's going on with a parent who has PTSD, and the family may not know what they can do to help.  Family members should find out as much as they can about PTSD and get help for themselves, even if the person with PTSD doesn't seek treatment. The family should not pressure or try to force their loved one to get help. Classes or treatment may also be useful for stress and anger management, addiction, couples communication, or parenting.