When grief lingers

Soldiers Magazine, June, 2004 by Beth Reece

YOU'RE home safe, but the memories won't fade. Many combat veterans suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder after experiencing life-threatening situations or witnessing others being harmed. Most veterans gradually recover from the symptoms of PTSD without medical treatment, while others need professional help.

Symptoms of PTSD include unwanted memories or flashbacks, difficulty sleeping, irritability, anger, anxiety, emotional numbness, avoidance of trauma-related thoughts and feelings, difficulty concentrating, depression, guilt and shame. Untreated symptoms may worsen and eventually take a toll on relationships.

One step toward overcoming PTSD is learning about trauma and its effects. Veterans' loved ones should also learn about PTSD to understand veterans' reactions and to help them cope.

PTSD treatment can increase individuals' ability to cope and decrease intense emotions. It cannot erase memories of traumatic events.

The National Center for PTSD has developed a guide addressing the special needs of Operation Iraqi Freedom veterans.

* For educational handouts on war-related stress, go to www.ncptsd.org/topics/war.html.> Medical centers run by the Department of Veterans Affairs also provide specialized programs for veterans with PTSD.

* For details from the Department of Veterans Affairs, go to www.va.gov.rcs.