PTSD A Serious Concern For Returning Combat Veterans

September 15, 2011

One of the biggest concerns for returning combat veterans is a silent one. It is not visible, like a missing limb. It may only show it’s ugly head from time to time, making it difficult to be diagnosed by a doctor, unlike many more obvious diseases. It’s Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and it is affecting an alarming number of our returning veterans.

The illness has only gained attention in the last few decades, with the return of soldiers from the first Iraqi conflict. Now, it is reported that up to one-third of the half million troops returning home since 2003 have been affected by PTSD. Although this may be a conservative number, many soldiers are in denial about suffering from the condition or don’t seek treatment.

One Army officer is trying to change that. Channel 3 News reported that Sgt. Maj. Raymond F. Chandler III, the top non-commissioned officer in the United States Army, discussed his experience with the disease on Tuesday of this week, with soldiers at Fort Bragg.

He told of the mental anguish he put on himself because of the loss of his soldiers and doubted his ability as a leader. More importantly, he told the soldiers of the rejuvenation he found after seeking help coping with his struggles.

The North Carolina Veterans Disability Lawyers with HensonFuerst support all soldiers returning from combat and suffering from PTSD. We can help you get the veterans benefits you deserve–call 1-800-4-LAW-MED or complete a free consultation form.