1/3 of Iraq Veterans Seek Mental Health Services

It seems to me that any Veteran that has seen combat would to suffer with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), to some degree. I often wonder why the armed services don't require extensive PTSD treatment, no doubt it has to do with expenses. To think that there is not some damage done to the psyche of an average person returning from a combat situation seems downright stupid.

Years ago, I worked with a patient that clearly suffered from this disorder. He'd been a combat vet during WWII. The man could not talk for 5 minutes without repeating a sentance that had to do with what he'd experienced in combat. Perhaps he had dementia, as far as I know he did not. It was then I realized how sad, and how serious this disorder is.

From primate behavior studies at the University of Texas- Austin, we learned that a traumatic event, or simply an event that has a powerful emotional impact (good or bad) changes brain chemicals. If that is the case, one wonders if therapy would work at all for victims of PTSD. Since behavior modification goes hand in glove with therapy, it should be beneficial.

On a slightly political note, if you're reading this, disagreeing or agreeing, posting your own thoughts, talking in public without fear, or just living in the United States...

...thank a soldier.