Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that affects many veterans. Approximately 11-20% of veterans who served in Operations Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Enduring Freedom (OEF) are estimated to have PTSD in a given year.
Around 30% of Vietnam War veterans are estimated to have experienced PTSD at some point in their lives and roughly 1 in 4 women experienced sexual harassment or assault while in service, which can lead to the development of PTSD.
In order to find the right support and resources to assist you or your loved ones who may be experiencing PTSD, it is important that you first understand what PTSD is and what treatment options are currently available.
Before you read on, we would want to inform you that this article contains sensitive topics which may generate feelings of fear or upset in certain individuals experiencing PTSD. Please check in with your body and state of mind first before continuing on, and if you are feeling overwhelmed please consider reading this another time when you feel you are ready to receive the information better.
Otherwise, read on to learn more about PTSD symptoms and recovery options for veterans.
What is PTSD?
PTSD happens when the body’s natural defense system stays stuck in overdrive long after the danger is gone. In combat or high-stress situations, your brain triggers a "fight, flight, or freeze" response to protect you.
But for some, even after returning home, the brain and nervous system continue to react as if they’re still on the battlefield. This constant state of alert, or hypervigilance, leads to flashbacks, nightmares, and emotional numbness—your body’s way of trying to shield you from the trauma, even when you’re in a safe environment.
Why Do So Many Veterans Have PTSD?
Why is PTSD so common among veterans? There are a few reasons that may contribute:
Exposure to combat and life-threatening situations
Military Sexual Trauma (MST)
High-stress military environment
Moral injury (when a person experiences profound guilt, shame, or distress after engaging in or witnessing actions that violate their deeply held moral or ethical beliefs).
Prolonged exposure to trauma
Reintegration challenges
Limited access to mental and physical health care
PTSD manifests through a variety of symptoms that can interfere with daily life and overall well-being. By identifying these symptoms early, veterans and their loved ones can seek appropriate help and improve their quality of life.
Common Signs and Symptoms of PTSD
Re-experiencing the Trauma
Flashbacks: Vivid memories that make individuals feel like they are reliving the traumatic event.
Nightmares: Disturbing dreams related to the trauma.
Intrusive Thoughts: Unwanted thoughts about the traumatic experience.
Avoidance Behaviors
Avoiding Reminders: Steering clear of places, people, or activities that trigger memories of the trauma.
Isolation: Withdrawing from social situations and relationships.
Negative Changes in Mood and Cognition
Depression: Persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness.
Guilt or Shame: Unfounded feelings of responsibility for the traumatic event.
Memory Issues: Difficulty recalling key aspects of the trauma.
Hyperarousal Symptoms
Hypervigilance: Being overly alert and easily startled.
Irritability: Increased anger and frustration.
Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling or staying asleep.
The Impact of Combat Stress
Combat stress refers to the psychological and emotional strain experienced by military personnel during or after exposure to the intense pressures of combat. While combat stress typically subsides after the individual is removed from the stressful environment, if it lingers or worsens, it can lead to more serious conditions like PTSD.
The intense and prolonged exposure to life-threatening situations can leave deep psychological scars. The key difference is that combat stress is often short-term, whereas PTSD is a chronic mental health condition.
Is PTSD Treatable?
All of this may seem a bit overwhelming. When you are navigating something like PTSD on your own it can feel hopeless at times. We're here to tell you that healing IS possible, as PTSD is a treatable condition. The human brain and body are capable of healing, repairing, and regenerating in miraculous ways!
At Trauma Recovery Services of Arizona, we have worked with many veterans with PTSD and developed effective treatment plans that have substantially improved their quality of life. PTSD can be a challenging condition, but it's important to remember that your body is not the enemy. It's simply trying to protect you in the only way it knows how.
Our team is committed to providing compassionate, inclusive, and empowering care to veterans experiencing PTSD. Our range of services are designed to address various aspects of PTSD to support veterans on their individual journeys to peace and wellbeing.
Effective PTSD Treatments
EMDR Therapy
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based treatment that helps veterans process traumatic memories and reduce the distress they cause. EMDR Therapy is particularly effective for those who have not found relief through traditional therapies. Learn more about our EMDR Therapy services here.
Substance Abuse Counseling
For veterans struggling with substance use as a way to cope with PTSD, we offer specialized counseling to address both substance abuse and underlying trauma. Learn more about our Substance Abuse Counseling services here.
First Responder Therapy
We recognize the unique challenges faced by veterans who transition into first responder roles. Our therapy services are tailored to support these individuals in managing their mental health while performing demanding jobs. Learn more about our First Responder Therapy services here.
Navigating VA Benefits and Insurance
Understanding and accessing VA benefits can be daunting. Our team assists veterans in navigating the complexities of VA benefits and insurance to ensure they receive the comprehensive care they deserve. Get in touch with us here to speak to a member of our team and discuss your options.
Take the First Step Towards Healing
If you or a loved one are experiencing signs and symptoms of PTSD, know that you are not alone. We are here to help. By focusing on inclusive, compassionate, and trauma-informed care, we aim to provide the highest standard of support for veterans experiencing PTSD.
Your well-being is our priority, and we are committed to helping you find the peace and resilience you deserve. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support you on your path to healing.
Connect with a member of our team here.
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