Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder can occur following a life-threatening event like military
combat, natural disasters, terrorist incidents, serious accidents, or violent personal assaults
like rape. Most survivors of trauma return to normal given a little time. However, some
people have stress reactions that don't go away on their own, or may even get worse over
time. These individuals may develop PTSD.
People who suffer from PTSD often suffer from nightmares, flashbacks, difficulty sleeping, and
feeling emotionally numb. These symptoms can significantly impair your daily life.
In addition PTSD is marked by clear physical and psychological symptoms. It often has
symptoms like depression, substance abuse, problems of memory and cognition, and other physical and
mental health problems. The disorder is also associated with difficulties in social or family
life, including occupational instability, marital problems, family discord, and difficulties in
parenting.
If you think you may be suffering from PTSD, the following list of resources and information
will help you find help in dealing with PTSD and related conditions.
Online PTSD Resources:
National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
A special center within Veterans Affairs create to advance the clinical care and social
welfare of America's veterans through research, education, and training in the science, diagnosis,
and treatment of PTSD and stress-related disorders.
http://www.ncptsd.va.gov/index.html
Ameriforce Deployment Guide
Fact sheets and information for service members and their families on post-deployment
including home, finances, career, and more.
http://www.ameriforce.net/deployment/
Courage to Care
A site created by Uniformed Services University for the Health Sciences, which belongs to the
Center for Traumatic Studies and includes a wealth of additional information. 'Courage to Care' is
an electronic health campaign for military and civilian professionals serving the military
community, and for military men, women and families.
http://www.usuhs.mil/psy/courage.html
Military OneSource
This free 24-hour service, provided by the Department of Defense, is available to
all active duty, Guard, and Reserve members and their families. Consultants provide
information and make referrals on a wide range of issues. You can reach the program by
telephone at 1-800-342-9647 or through the Web site at
http://www.militaryonesource.com/.
