Since the horrible events on September 11, 2001, almost 2 million troops have served in combat in Iraq or Afghanistan. According to the Invisible Wounds of War Study, independently conducted by the RAND corporation, approximately 300,000 of those soldiers will be diagnosed with PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) is the coming years. Thankfully, there is a nationwide increase in awareness concerning PTSD and this looming mental healthcare crisis as a result of many recent television and newspaper reports. This awareness, however, must be transformed into concrete action – real-life, easy-to-find resources and support for our nation’s heroes as well as their family members.
Family members who care for veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder are an often forgotten segment of society which is greatly in need of help. From personal experience, as the wife of an Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) Veteran who was diagnosed with PTSD, I have been amazed by the lack of worthwhile information and support for the loved ones of our vets. Many families are pushed to the point of breaking by PTSD without knowing how or even why they should get help. Comprehensive care for combat veterans must include adequate information and counseling services for their family members.
There are many reasons care should be offered to family members. First, many caregivers often develop “Secondary” PTSD. This disorder (which is still not recognized by many in the mental health community, but most spouses who care for a Vet with combat PTSD can tell you absolutely exists), occurs when an individual who lives under the daily strain and uncertainty associated with living with a PTSD sufferer, begins to develop and exhibit symptoms of PTSD themselves. With several people living under one roof who are suffering from primary or secondary Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, an already difficult situation can become unbearable.