Equipping Veterans For Recovery From PTSD
Veterans affected by Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) experience symptoms that can turn everyday life activities into formidable challenges. While it can be difficult to get a clear number on how many veterans are impacted by PTSD, you can get an idea of the magnitude of this by looking at the estimates for those who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom which ranges from between 11 to 20%.
The symptoms and effects of PTSD include:
Flashbacks or nightmares that cause the sufferer to re-experience traumatic events
Careful avoidance of reminders of the trauma
Persistent difficulty in regulating moods, characterized by negative thoughts and feelings
Outbursts that are angry in nature
Further complicating the difficulties around PTSD is often a reluctance to seek treatment. Some veterans fear that they may be treated differently because of a diagnosis. Other factors can also inhibit treatment-seeking by veterans:
A desire to maintain their privacy
The concern that others may lose confidence in their abilities
Difficulty accessing necessary or relevant treatment
A preference to rely on family and friends or a belief that treatment would be ineffective
In some situations, a veteran may develop an intricate system of avoidance that enables them to stay clear of any potential reminder or trigger of the traumatic event. This may cause them to become increasingly isolated from family and friends as they orchestrate the avoidance of loud noises or other stimulating events that may create the right setting for a flashback.
The impact of PTSD can be far-reaching, with additional mental health symptoms and diagnoses stemming from trauma. Anxiety, depression and substance use can all stem from difficulties with PTSD.
Treatment for PTSD
Treatment for veterans suffering from PTSD is accessible through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Vet Centers. Evidence-based treatment options include:
Mental health assessment
Prescription of appropriate medication
Group Therapy
One-on-one psychotherapy or family therapy
Treatment programs are overseen by PTSD specialists, and some locations offer a walk-in clinic where veterans suffering from the effects of PTSD can seek immediate assistance.
In addition to treating the symptoms of PTSD, specialists also work to remove the stigma of mental health conditions among veterans, particularly related to PTSD. One of the effects of the condition is a feeling of isolation, but it is clear that PTSD is commonly experienced by veterans.
Ready to Help?
If you are interested in making sure that every U.S. veteran has access to high-quality treatment for PTSD, consider participating in the cryptocurrency made by veterans to support veterans. Get started by learning how you can participate in equipping charities that assist veterans with Military.Finance.
