Chapter 1. PTSD: Returning from Iraq

1.1 PTSD: Returning from Iraq

Short Description

Jared, wounded during combat in Iraq, is diagnosed as suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). He reports that his symptoms include irritability and impatience. He admits that he easily loses his temper and finds it difficult “to put up with anything.”

Long Description

Jared, wounded during combat in Iraq, is diagnosed as suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). He reports that his symptoms include irritability and impatience. He admits that he easily loses his temper and finds it difficult “to put up with anything.” PTSD may be more widespread than we think. It is very likely that each of us will experience a life-threatening event at some point in our lives. For some, the event will produce a chronic, unremitting disorder. Although Jared had once prepared a detailed account of the ambush, he is now either unable to remember what happened or simply does not want to discuss it. He indicates that during his 10 months of therapy he has deliberately tried to forget about the attack. Jared does recount two boys firing guns at his truck. In the course of the assault, he shot and killed one of the boys who appeared to be only seven years old. A year after the ambush, Jared is still in therapy. He has a new girlfriend who reports that Jared is unpredictable. On one occasion, he became very drunk and physically assaulted her. Jared does not understand his own behavior. Research suggests that 1 in 6 Iraqi veterans return with signs of anxiety, depression, or PTSD. Most are not asking for the help they need. Instead, they try to deal with their problems on their own. They do not want the stigma of being a “head case.” Those with physical injuries have little respect for those merely experiencing psychological distress. Although Jared suffered a foot injury in combat, he now feels that he used it as an excuse to run away. Gale, Jaredís girlfriend, reports that she told him she wanted him to get help. Jared said he did not want to lose her so he would do what it would take to keep her. Nonetheless, his violence returned and again he assaulted her. Through tears she reports that Jared is not bad and repeats her hope that he will get the necessary help.

Questions

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