Veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder: Finding Effective and Adequate Treatments to Help with this Disorder

Veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder: Finding Effective and Adequate Treatments to Help with this Disorder

Lucretia Mann Team Leader Santa Cruz County Vet Center

By Branden Kay

12.2 million U.S. soldiers served in Iraq and Afghanistan.6,600 deaths and 48,000 injuries.30% of veterans suffer from PTSD (APA, 2007).Background

High death/suicide ratePTSD treatments not workingMilitary health services are failing (Barrett, 2013)

Critical Situation

Unequipped for younger veterans.Not enough workers.Long appointment waits (Williamson & Mulhall, 2007).Facility problems

Waiting time to receive money is long.Funds used inappropriately (Shinn, Moore & Rich, 2013).

Funds

Unaggressive at seeking veterans for help.Veterans afraid reputation will be hurt.Have a more personal touch (APA, 2007).Barriers

Substance abuse Homelessness Suicide

Effects

Support group for veterans and their families.24/7 hour crisis phone. Hosts programs (Ruiz, 2012).Tragedy Assistant Program for Survivors

Veterans train therapy dogs.Helps experience positive interactions with community.Reduces PTSD symptoms. Warrior Canine Connection

White House acknowledges the critical situation (Jordan, 2013)Families are knowledgeableKeep veterans busy with activitiesEstablish strong communication

New solutions from Government

Government and veterans need work betterMore personal touchVeterans need to seek helpNew programs can help

Conclusion

American Psychological Association Presidential Task Force on Military Deployment Services for Youth, Families and Service Members (2007). Psychological Needs of Military Personnel and Their Families Are Increasing. Military Deployment Services TF Report. Barrett, K. (2013, April 3). Why do so many veterans kill themselves?. Veterans Today. Retrieved on March 3, 2014 Jordan, B. (2013, August 12). Obama introduces new PTSD and education programs. Military.com.Ruiz, R. (2012 May 26). Survivors of military suicide victims come together to grieve. NBC.comShinn, M., Moore, D. & Rich, S., (2013, August 25). Despite backlogs, VA disability claims processors get bonuses. The Washington Post. Williamson, V. & Muhall, E. (2009). Invisible Wounds Psychological and Neurological Injuries Confront a New Generation of Veterans. Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America. Wounded Warrior Canine Program (n.d.). Our Program: WCCs Service Dog Training Program. Warrior Canine Connection. References