By Claralynn Schnell of ContemporaryVA

Maybe it seems like Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in combat vets is just an excuse for bad behavior, and it could be for some.  However, for most it is a daily struggle to deal with the demons, fears and warped sense of thinking.  It is hard for those returning from a combat zone to act or feel normally.  This world a PTSD is one that they now live in and function in, but it doesn’t make it easy, safe or the best way to live.

Ask almost any Veteran who has been in a combat zone and they will tell you that they struggled a little upon re-entering the “real world.” Whether it is simply in the way that they speak, act, react or feel about things, veterans returning from combat are much like immigrants who do know the customs of their land, but are unable to fully live those customs.  Waiting family members try to be understanding and help with the adjustment, but it is not an easy road for the veteran or the family member.  Let me be the first to tell you, little is said about the family member and the struggles they face when dealing with someone with PTSD.

Many military marriages end in divorce and many returning veterans struggle with the use of alcohol to numb the pain that was caused.  While there are over a million veterans who have served in the current combat, little is still done to help those returning to really seek help.  It can take weeks to get an appointment for the Mental Health services, by then, it is typically too late and the on the edge soldier has killed himself, harmed his family, gotten a DUI or started fights.  None of these actions are befitting a military member who has served their country and lost friends in the war. 

We can help those suffering with PTSD by listening and getting them help as soon as possible.  If you know someone suffering with PTSD please contact Paul.