Understanding Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Combat Veterans: Expert Insights from JAAPA
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Understanding the Intricacies of PTSD among Soldiers: Insights from JAAPA
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Combat Veterans: JAAPA Advancement
Key Points Covered in Article
- Overview of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- PTSD prevalence in combat veterans
- Common symptoms and difficulties
- Available therapeutic approaches for PTSD
- Roles and responsibilities we can play in helping veterans
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
As we delve into the depths of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in combat veterans, it is critical to understand that JAAPA (Journal of the American Academy of Physician Assistants) provides an array of insightful research, enhancing our understanding of this debilitating disorder. The post-service lives of our bravery-incarnate soldiers are often marred by this overlooked fallback of military service which often goes unnoticed.
PTSD in combat veterans signals a significant mental health concern resulting from experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event during military service. Often, combat veterans do not immediately realize they have PTSD as their symptoms could be attributed to typical post-deployment adjustments. Yet, with time, these symptoms can severally affect a veteran's quality of life. One can learn more about these extensive effects here.
The Prevalence of PTSD
Posttraumatic stress disorder in combat veterans is disturbingly prevalent. According to research conducted by the JAAPA, nearly 20% of veterans who served in operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom have been diagnosed with PTSD. Approximately 12% of Gulf War veterans and 15% of Vietnam veterans are also diagnosed with this disorder during their lifetime.
This high prevalence of PTSD among veterans can be attributed to the increased exposure to traumatic events in their line of duty. For instance, witnessing the death of comrades, coming under fire, or causing harm to others - even unintentionally - contribute to the development of this disorder.
Symptoms and Challenges
Recognizing the symptoms of PTSD is crucial for early intervention. These symptoms manifest differently in different individuals, but the common ones to look out for include:
- Problems with sleeping
- Increased level of anxiety
- Depression
- Changes in personality
- Difficulty in remembering and focusing
- Overwhelming guilt or shame
Coping with PTSD
A variety of therapeutic approaches are available for managing PTSD. These include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), prolonged exposure therapy (PET), cognitive processing therapy (CPT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Some might even find medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) helpful.
Veterans with PTSD can benefit from treatments available at the Aura Institute where we offer a holistic approach towards addressing the issue.
Our Roles
As a society, friends or family members to these combat veterans, we must familiarize ourselves with this disorder and its consequences. Offering a supportive and understanding environment is incredibly beneficial, but prompt professional help is paramount. To understand more about our roles, visit
FAQ
1. Can Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in combat veterans be cured fully?
While PTSD can be a chronic condition, many veterans experience significant relief from symptoms through therapy and medication and lead fulfilling lives.
2. How are families affected?
Families of combat veterans with PTSD experience what is known as secondary traumatic stress. This can cause significant strain on relationships and family dynamics.
3. Is it possible for a veteran to develop PTSD years after serving?
Yes, PTSD can develop any time after the traumatic event. For some veterans, symptoms may appear years later.
Remember, understanding, compassion, patience, and professional guidance can go a long way in helping combat veterans live with and manage their PTSD.
Ready to start your career as a trauma informed care practitioner? Contact us at info@aurainstitute.org or (424) 400-3048 to begin your journey as a certified trauma practitioner and make a positive impact in trauma care.