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Your Spouse and PTSD
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1 in 8 returning soldiers suffer from PTSD.
The day has arrived, your soldier's homecoming day. After a long 18 month deployment, you are ready for everything to go back to normal. You have planned a big surprise party for your spouse's big arrival. You leave to pick them up and hurry to bring them home to the surprise. Family and friends surround you in praise that your spouse is finally home safely. Once everyone has left you are left alone with this person that you have not seen in over a year. You are eager to get back into a routine, but is your spouse? You notice that your once vibrant eager to get out soldier is now a completely different person. They seem angry, stressed and avoiding any conversation. So what may be the issue? Many soldier's who have returned from war suffer from Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is a disorder that can develop following a traumatic event that threatens your safety or makes you feel helpless. And in this case; a military combat is the most common cause.
Common Signs of PTSD
Physical
Fatigue
Chest Pain
Twitches
Weakness
Insomnia or Nightmares
Breathing Difficulty
Muscle Tremors
Grinding of Teeth
Profuse Sweating
Pounding Heart
Diarrhea or Intestinal Upsets
Headaches
Behavioral
Withdrawal
Pacing & Restlessness
Emotional Outbursts
Anti-Social Acts
Suspicion and Paranoia
Loss of Interest in Hobbies
Increased Alcohol Consumption
Other Substance Abuse
Emotional
Anxiety or Panic
Guilt
Fear
Denial
Irritability
Depression
Intense Anger
Agitation
Apprehension
A study done by the Associated Press claims that 1 in 8 returning soldier's suffer from PTSD. Most of these soldier's do not seek the proper help that is needed. They may be in denial that they are suffering from PTSD, which is why your role as the spouse is so important. If you notice any of the symptoms above, speak to your soldier about it. Explain to them why it is important they seek help immediately.
So what is the military doing about it? Programs and services are provided for your spouse once they have returned from war. Contact your local Department of Veterans Affairs for more information.
What about group counseling? The Strong Bonds Program, offers counseling for couples and family after deployment.
Recommended reading on PTSD: Military Veterans PTSD Reference Manual
For more information on PTSD, please visit the U.S. Army Medical Department.
~I live, walk, and breathe among the bravest of heroes. I am a Military Wife.
For more info: email Angela at Armywife306@hotmail.com
PTSD
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