Post-traumatic stress disorder among veterans is a hot button topic
because it is a serious mental condition that takes the lives of
thousands if not millions of veterans every year. There are many
different opinions and views on this issue. Some feel that the
diagnosis of PTSD is used too much, and others feel it is not used
enough. Some feel there is plenty of help for veterans struggling with
PTSD and others do not feel there is enough. This topic matters to me
because my son is currently in the Navy and has seen some things
already in his first 2 years overseas that are traumatizing. He is young,
just starting a family and struggling with PTSD already.
The effects of PTSD on individuals can present in so many different
forms but the main form is through guilt, shame, remorse, depression,
disinterest, flashbacks, insomnia, nightmares, and inability to feel
happiness. The mere mention of PTSD to a veteran makes most of
them shut down completely. They do not want to admit they are
struggling with this because it is unmanly, and they are in denial. This
also leads to veterans not seeking out help and the consequences of
that can be devastating. a
Other presentations of PTSD are substance use and abuse, reckless
behavior, rapid mood changes, and aggression. These types of
behaviors can have a ripple effect out into society when you
encounter a veteran that is struggling with these emotions. Extremely
negative consequences occur in society from as simple as a bad
confrontation at the grocery store to a substance abuse related
accident with long term injuries to the victim to death by the hands of
the veteran.
Psychological concepts that can assist with understanding PTSD are
emotional regulation and coping skills. The study of emotional
regulation and how PTSD affects an individual can help with the
comprehension of their diagnosis. Once comprehension is achieved,
applying coping skills to manage the diagnosis is essential. Based on
the personality of the individual it is imperative to apply the correct
coping skills for successful management.
This hot button topic applies to self-care. PTSD individuals need to
take the time to personally reflect on their emotions while developing
skills to cope and improve their well-being. A focus on self-care is
important for an individual struggling with PTSD to find balance and
happiness in their life. a
