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Many people
have heard of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD in
relation to combat experiences or traumatic situations.
Basically, PTSD is a set of reactions that can be normal
immediately following a traumatic event such as combat, but
when these reactions continue long after the traumatic event
is over, it can become PTSD. PTSD varies widely in how
severe it can be, from mild and short lasting to severe and
chronic. These reactions can cause problems in getting along
with family and friends, functioning on the job or at
school, or adjusting to the transition back to civilian
life.
If the
service member continues to experience the following
reactions, please
contact a physician or behavioral health professional:
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•
Re-experiencing or continuing to think about
combat or feeling as if they are still in
combat.
• Avoidance, numbing of emotions, not wanting to
discuss the traumatic event or feeling shut down
emotionally.
• Arousal or having a hard time relaxing or
feeling “on guard,” jumpy, unable to sleep or
concentrate, have excessive concerns about
security or get angry easily. |
PTSD is
treatable and acting early can prevent PTSD from
becoming worse and causing problems in careers and
relationships.
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Brain Injury
Assoc. of Ohio