The recent wars in Afghanistan and Iraq have resulted in a large number of returning veterans who suffer from major depression and/or posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Major depression and PTSD are both serious and potentially devastating psychological disorders that require professional treatment. Depression and PTSD can lead to problems maintaining healthy relationships, may interfere with work and family life, can contribute to substance abuse issues and addiction and, in the worst cases, may lead to suicide.
Rates of PTSD among Combat Veterans
Statistics regarding PTSD and other psychological issues among combat veterans demonstrate the extent of the problem.
According to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA):
- 830,000 veterans of the war in Vietnam have suffered symptoms of PTSD
- 15.2% of male Vietnam veterans and 8.5% of female Vietnam veterans currently suffer from PTSD
- 30.9% of male and 26.9% of female Vietnam veterans have or will experience symptoms of PTSD at some point in their lives
- Among veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan, 40% of soldiers, 33% of Marines, and 50% of National Guard personnel have experienced service-related psychological disturbances
- Up to 20% of veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan suffer symptoms of PTSD
- 303,000 veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan suffer from PTSD, major depression, or both
- Of the 2.6 million veterans receiving VA benefits, 203,378 reported PTSD as their primary qualifying condition – more than double the rate for any other condition
- Among veterans who qualify as 100% disabled, the most common qualifying condition is PTSD, which accounts for 26% of completely disabled veterans
Symptoms of PTSD
The symptoms of PTSD include but are not limited to the following:
- Reliving the traumatic event
- Being preoccupied with the traumatic event so that it is difficult to concentrate on other things
- Nightmares
- Mood swings, especially anger and irritability
- Avoidance of situations that remind the person of the traumatic event
- Avoidance of crowds
- Feeling numb, detached or emotionally suppressed
- Increased startle response (being easily and excessively startled by loud or sudden noises)
- Depression
- Thoughts of suicide
- Alcohol or drug abuse
Need Help Finding Treatment for Combat-Related Trauma?
Traditionally the military has been a culture of strength and self-sufficiency. These are very admirable traits in a combat soldier, but there is a down side: soldiers who have been trained and encouraged to “tough it out” and “pull yourself up by your own bootstraps” may be reluctant to admit that they suffer from psychological problems and seek the help they need to cope with and overcome the potentially devastating effects of combat-related trauma.
If you are a veteran suffering from the effects of trauma you experienced as a result of your service to our country, don’t let stigmas prevent you from getting the help you need. There are many treatment options available to help veterans suffering from PTSD. Financial assistance may be available to veterans who qualify. If you would like assistance finding treatment for combat-related trauma, or if you have any questions about PTSD, treatment and recovery, call our toll-free helpline today. Counselors are available 24 hours a day to answer any questions you may have and help you find the treatment you need.