For many this Veterans’ Day around America, Fort Hood stands as a reminder of the stress and fatigue that many veterans are facing, especially with the possibility of redeployment to Afghanistan.
However Fort Hood also stands at the forefront of mental health care for many veterans suffering from Post Traumatic Stress disorder. Fort Hood is the home of the Warrior Combat Stress Program set up to assist veterans suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. This is very much a real brain disorder. It is an invisible disorder. It is also one where recovery can be achieved. It has recently been reported that Fort Hood has a new policy issued encouraging servicemen to seek mental health counseling and staff need to “do everything possible to eliminate any stigma or adverse consequences” associated with it. This new policy is a vital step in the right direction especially when the total number of suicides among active duty is becoming unusually high.
Earlier this year, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder was front and center in the news where a veteran who suffered from PTSD was found guilty by reason of insanity. You can read more about this case here.
Mental Health America recently announced that they are partnering with partnering with Prescription Audio, a Philadelphia-area based firm to make the company’s scientifically based sound therapy available without charge as a download to veterans, active duty servicemen and women, their family members and health care providers. You can learn more about their services by checking Mental Health America website.
For more information about PSTD please check out the websites of the National Institute of Mental Health, the United States Department of Veterans’ Affairs, and Mental Health America.
Comments
It is a reminder, but be careful. Our shooter had never been deployed. The closest he got to action was talking to the men and women who had actually served. He should not be afforded the excuse of PSD. He is allegedly a conflicted individual. Nothing more. Nothing less. They -- the defense lawyers -- also tried to suggest that the DC Sniper had Gulf War Syndrome. All he had was a desire to kill. These are grown men unable to cope. On Veteran's Day, let's not give this mass murderer the "out" of PSD. You have to deploy to earn that awful title.
PTSD, not PSD... my cap "T" key seems to fall off.
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!