PTSD and it's effects on my family member home from Iraq...
I try not to harp on it too much or let it sway my beliefs about Iraq and the War on Terror but I do have a close family member who's been there, done that and is now suffering the unseen consequences.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is the unseen injury in all war but given the surprise IED blasts and urban fighting environment, Iraq is especially ripe for PTSD... the cold sweats, constant fidgeting, inability to sleep, not being able to make a decision, nightmares and day time visions, sensitivity to sudden noises, I've seen it all in him. Thankfully, we got him to realize that it's not him but this disorder that he's got to deal with. But from experience, I can tell you that convincing a Marine that he's got to go get help with his brain is tough. Makes me think of all the other guys coming home who have PTSD but not the support system to get them through. And, ultimately, what this unseen injury is going to look like down the road.
Luckily, my family member has begun to see success with his treatment so if you or someone you know might be experiencing PTSD, please know treatment does work.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is the unseen injury in all war but given the surprise IED blasts and urban fighting environment, Iraq is especially ripe for PTSD... the cold sweats, constant fidgeting, inability to sleep, not being able to make a decision, nightmares and day time visions, sensitivity to sudden noises, I've seen it all in him. Thankfully, we got him to realize that it's not him but this disorder that he's got to deal with. But from experience, I can tell you that convincing a Marine that he's got to go get help with his brain is tough. Makes me think of all the other guys coming home who have PTSD but not the support system to get them through. And, ultimately, what this unseen injury is going to look like down the road.
Luckily, my family member has begun to see success with his treatment so if you or someone you know might be experiencing PTSD, please know treatment does work.
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