Therapy Battles War-Related Mental Health Conditions

Therapy Battles War-Related Mental Health Conditions

(July 2, 2007) -- SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Military service members returning home from active duty are combating mental health conditions at an alarming rate. As there is a growing concern of the availability and the barriers of such care, military families continue to struggle with the side effects of war. Due to waiting lists and staff shortages, military personnel may need to seek therapy outside of the military mental health systems. Mental health experts, such as licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, are available and are trained to help those who suffer from war-related mental health conditions, such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression and anxiety.

"It is critical that military personnel act early to prevent the negative consequences their service may have on their personal welfare, relationships and careers," said Carolyn Gerard, President of the North County San Diego Chapter for the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. "Soldiers and vets often avoid seeking professional help due to fears they have about the stigma of therapy and its effect on their image and ego. In reality, therapy can help tremendously with issues veterans and their families face every day."

Preliminary findings suggest that an estimated 18 percent of those serving in Iraq and an estimated 11 percent of those serving in Afghanistan will suffer from PTSD, according to the National Center for PTSD. Family members can assist returning veterans by understanding and identifying the following symptoms that might signal a war-related mental health disorder:

Flashbacks or reliving a traumatic event
Nightmares
Sleep disturbances
Anger and irritability
Fear and anxiety Shame or guilt
Suicidal thoughts
Overwhelming feelings of sadness and grief
Relationship problems
Excessive alcohol or drug use

If a veteran you know is experiencing these symptoms over a prolonged period of time, it is important to seek assistance. Psychotherapy is valuable in helping veterans and their families develop coping skills and healthy alternatives for dealing with PTSD and other war-related conditions. Treatment programs are successful in alleviating flashbacks, anger, and strained relationships that accompany PTSD.

California-based licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) are available to assess, diagnose, and treat individuals and groups with the signs and symptoms of war-related mental health conditions. To locate a California therapist, CAMFT provides an online resource, www.TherapistFinder.com, allowing individuals to identify a therapist's skills, area(s) of expertise, educational background and other information that can ensure a positive and successful therapy experience. Therapy is a cost-effective alternative treatment that offers short- and long-term interventions.

Source: California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists

Last updated: 07/07

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Therapy Battles War-Related Mental Health Conditions