PTSD and Veterans: A Path to Recovery

Although frequently referenced in casual conversations, PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) is an often ignored and misunderstood mental health issue. Less than six percent of the population develops PTSD during their lifetimes. However, that percentage nearly doubles for veterans. Even more critically, almost 25% of those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan have PTSD.

Understanding PTSD and the problems related to this condition is the starting point. Equally or more importantly, as the National Center for PTSD states, “Everyone with PTSD—whether they are veterans or civilian survivors of sexual assault, serious accidents, natural disasters, or other traumatic events—needs to know that effective treatments can reduce symptoms and lead to a better quality of life.”

PTSD develops from experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening event. Stress reactions to these types of events are normal, and most people start to feel better after a few weeks. Symptoms lasting longer than a month and causing problems signal the possibility of PTSD.

The PTSD symptom types noted by the National Center for PTSD include: (1) reliving the event (also called re-experiencing symptoms), (2) avoiding things that remind you of the event, (3) having more negative thoughts and feelings than before the event, and (4) feeling on edge or keyed up (also called hyperarousal).

Everyone experiences symptoms in their own way. A medical diagnosis of PTSD as a mental health condition occurs when an individual exhibits symptoms of all four types.

There are numerous options available for the treatment of PTSD. More than one approach may be needed due to the complexity of the resulting symptoms and ensuing problems with drug and alcohol use, struggles with relationships and, even, difficulties maintaining housing. Types of treatment include:

• Trauma-focused therapy, either in-person or via telehealth, is often recommended because the relief can last after the treatment is over. Examples of this type of therapy include Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which helps individuals process traumatic events by focusing on past experiences while engaging in bilateral stimulation.
• Medications such as Sertraline (Zoloft), Venlafaxine (Effexor) and Paroxetine (Paxil) relieve the symptoms of PTSD but work only so long as taken. Often, a medication may be prescribed in combination with therapy.
• Related problems, such as alcohol or drug abuse, also can be a focus. While PTSD treatment can be helpful no matter what other issues an individual may be facing, those problems still need to be addressed.

Whatever the situation, treatment options and choices are very individualized. No one solution applies to everyone. The goal is to help the individual find hope for the future, reduce or eliminate symptoms, improve relationships and better cope with life’s ups and downs.

The National Center for PTSD offers a wealth of information for understanding PTSD, learning about treatment options, finding help and providing support for family and friends. Another resource, About Face, features stories told by veterans who lived with the consequences of PTSD and found a path forward. Resources specific to PTSD treatment options include a PTSD Treatment Decision Aid, PTSD Treatment Explainer Videos and an Understanding PTSD & PTSD Treatment booklet.

One of the best ways to help veterans get treatment is to spread the word that PTSD Treatment Works. PTSD can happen to anyone and it is never too late to get treatment. My Advice to You offers heartfelt messages from veterans who understand first-step hesitancies and why getting help is so important. The National Center for PTSD also makes available a PTSD Self-Screen, a VA facility locator map for those seeking in-person assistance and an informative YouTube video. Another option is to call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988, press 1.

Veteran family members are impacted, too. Understanding PTSD: A Guide for Family & Friends and a PTSD Family Coach Mobile App provide useful insights. VA Caregiver Support services include a caregiver support hotline (1-855-260-3274) and a comprehensive assistance program.

June is PTSD Awareness Month. Please take a moment to spread the word, provide support or take action on your own behalf.

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