As a nation we have different situations during times of war, our Servicemembers serve bravely and return having seen and participated in many different types of warfare, on the battlefield and in support roles. Their service and patriotism to their country is hard fought, and we greatly appreciate their service. In the past no one is sure how many different soldiers came home from Vietnam, Korea, or either of the World Wars who were suffering from Post Traumatic Stress. During these wars the symptoms that were found later to be post trauma were often called something else, they were called Battle Fatigue, or the “thousand yard stare.
Now there is much more research and information available to help soldiers that come home with these traumatic experiences. With the proper diagnosis, soldiers who have been through severe situations and who need support can receive this support. It is not something that should be cloaked in secrecy or be referred to shamefully, but there is still a certain amount of stigma that soldiers suffering from Post Traumatic Stress have to endure.
If you have a Servicemember in your family or you are a Servicemember yourself and you believe that you are suffering from PTSD, there is help. People who are suspected to have PTSD should do their best to seek help, and be evaluated, to get the support to deal with the different situations that they have had to deal with. No one knows for certain the number of soldiers, Airman, sailors and Servicemembers that deal with this situation, but it is a concern for anyone that has served in recent battle or warfare conditions. Servicemembers that are returning from Afghanistan or Iraq should be aware of the possibility, and be on the lookout for signs of PTSD type stress disorder. If your Servicemember is remote, detached, or exceptionally moody, if they seem to not be able to function or participate in normal activities, or if they exhibit signs of excessive stress, depression, excessive emotionalism, or excessive remoteness, then they should be examined and evaluated.
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The disorder known as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is one that manifests itself after a person has been home for a while, it is not something that happens overnight. Studies are being continued at different Military hospitals, such as Walter Reed Army Hospital, and other facilities both civilian and military.