PTSD

First off I want to say that No, I am not just randomly deciding to discuss PTSD on here. However, I was catching up on my blogging last night and came across this topic in a comment and felt the need to provide resources, etc. (I guess that's the counselor in me). A comment in reponse to New Girl on Post's post titled Somewhat Controversial stated that "the armed services need to step up their counseling/PTSD services a bit more." I am not trying to call anybody out or accuse anybody of lying or being wrong. I just feel like not everybody is informed on this topic and it really is something that we all (as spouses, girlfriends, fiances, mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters) should be aware of the services that are out there for our loved ones.

So I would like to start with some symptoms of PTSD that you should look for when your loved one returns home:
There are 4 types of symptoms:
-Reliving the event
-Avoiding situations that remind you of the event
-Numbing
-Feeling Keyed Up

Some other common problems which individuals with PTSD may have are:
-Drinking or drug problems
-Feelings of hopelessness, shame, or despair
-Employment problems
-Relationship problems including divorce or violence
-Physical symptoms

Some good resources for you are:

www.ptsdresources.org This site has some videos which may be helpful as well as links to helpful books.
www.ptsd.va.gov This is the link the the Deparment of Veterans Affairs' National Center for PTSD.
www.mentalhealth.va.gov Through this link you can find additional information such as that at: www.mentalhealth.va.gov/OEFOIF/OEF_OIF_PTSD_andDepression.asp
At this site there is information on What is PTSD, Treatment for PTSD, Depression and Trauma, and Depression.
www.mentalhealth.va.gov/suicide_prevention/index.asp This site is the VA's site for suicide prevention. The phone number for the suicide prevention lifeline is 1-800-273-TALK
(8255). At the bottom of this website there is an area title "Get Help" which has information for Resource Guide for Family Members, Talking to your 4-8 year old, Talking to your 9-13 year old, and Talking to your 14-18 year old. The information about talking to your child is helping you talk about a suicide attempt in your family.

The most important thing for you to do if you think that your loved one has PTSD or is having suidicial ideation is to seek help. The links above will help you receive the help that you need.

I apologize to anybody who does not want to hear about this, and if you are offended that I am even talking about this I am truly sorry. I don't mean to offend anybody but this is unfortunately reality and I unfortunately have had to face some of this in my past. Therefore, I have learned a lot over the years and have attended multiple informational sessions on PTSD/Suicide Prevention. This is not a full overview of EVERYthing out there, but a piece of what the VA has to offer. You can find more on their website. If you have any questions please let me know and I will do my best to answer.