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HEALTH/FITNESS/WELLNESS
PTSD
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If you’re a member of the military community, chances are you may have heard the term Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD. PTSD is known as an anxiety disorder usually occurring after experiencing an event or situation in which harm was caused or there was a threat of harm. Psychological problems such as drug/alcohol abuse, depression, sleep problems to include bad dreams and guilt are just some of the symptoms of PTSD. The person experiencing PTSD may no longer want to drive a car following a bad accident, engage in events where loud noises are the norm or they may feel they are in danger all the time.
Suicidal thoughts will at times infect the mind of a person with severe PTSD. Family members and those close to the person with PTSD are encouraged to get them to seek help especially if they are in denial. An important thing to remember is that it takes time and patience when dealing with this disorder. Listening to the needs of the person is a key element when trying to help. Don’t ignore threats of suicide or harm.
PTSD & Military Service Members
Though PTSD can occur to anyone involved in a traumatic experience, it’s oft times related to some of our returning OEF/OIF male and female veterans and their families. OEF/OIF is a term used for Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Why some don’t seek help
As a military spouse whose soldier is at war, I have decided to educate myself by understanding more about the disorder and speaking with others who have experienced PTSD. One thing that I have learned is that this disorder is real. I have heard some say it’s a ploy by service members to receive more benefits or to get sympathy. That’s far from the truth.
There are some service members who will never seek help because of the stigma attached to having PTSD. The stigma—fear of losing their careers, the thought of being seen as incompetent and embarrassment.
I spoke with a friend of who is an Army wife; she stated that after returning from his first tour, her husband didn’t portray any major symptoms, but at night, he would cry. If she touched him, he immediately grabbed her arm as if she would harm him. Until he sought help, she slept on the couch after he went to sleep. It was for her safety, but she felt he needed space. When she finally asked him to get help, he refused. He said he could handle it and didn’t want anyone to know about it. Their struggle continues but she did say that he is thinking about seeking help.
How to Get Help
Help is available for PTSD from various sources. Military service and family members may visit www.oefoif.va.gov and/or contact the Soldier and Family Assistance Center at 915.568.6879
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
by Kim, Proud Army Wife
Armed Services YMCA
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