Lifelines — Thanks, veterans
By Jay Whitcomb
Saturday, October 31, 2009 9:02 PM PDT
Nov. 11 is the day we pause and remember the tremendous sacrifice our women and men in the military have made for us. What we sometimes don’t understand is some of the combat related problems these brave souls have.
Prior to the Vietnam experience, we referred to “battle fatigue” and “shell shock.” Today, we have a term that became common during the Vietnam era, “Post Traumatic Stress Disorder,” or more commonly PTSD.
We all have anxiety when something terrible happens. What is different about PTSD is the anxiety comes back after the fact. That can be in a few days, weeks, years or decades.
There are veterans of WW II who still have fear and anxiety just hearing a gun go off. Veterans sometimes have horrible nightmares where they relive their war experience over and over, night after night. They may suddenly have what we call a “flashback,” where it seems like they are right back in the middle of a battle. They are terrified all over again. Depression, anger, marital problems, substance abuse, sudden upset when reminded of the event (like in a movie or TV show) are some of the things that can happen to a veteran with PTSD.
When you or a loved one has PTSD related to battle trauma, the most important thing to do is be aware of what it is. Realize it is not real. It is a memory. Remember the person must stop and keep breathing. Wait for the flashback or feeling to pass. Focus on the “now.”
Say to yourself, “I know this is a flashback (or dream or a TV show).” By talking to yourself, you can work your way out of the anxiety. If your loved one is experiencing a PTSD event, just sit there with them. It is not helpful to try and talk them out of it or give advice. Just sit there, and your presence will reassure them. If they are talking, listen.
Our hope should always be that the veteran will gradually return to his (or her) former state and move forward in their life. We need to be ever so grateful. If you have the opportunity, say “thank you” to a veteran this week. Our lives are so much better for what they did for us.
Thank you to all who have served.
Jay Whitcomb is a licensed clinical social worker and can be reached at (541) 889-9167. The views and opinions expressed in this column are not necessarily those of the Argus Observer.
