When veterans return to civilian life from war, many suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD.
In fact, anywhere from 11-20% of veterans will experience symptoms of PTSD in their lifetime based on their service area.
There are many contributing factors to PTSD, including what a veteran does in war, the politics surrounding war, where the war is fought, and the type of enemy a veteran my face.
It’s important for both veterans, their families, and their allies in the community to know the ways in which PTSD can affect veterans. Check out these 7 common effects of PTSD on veterans upon return to their homeland.
Veterans can be difficult to live with
The effects of post-traumatic stress can take a toll on veteran’s families and those who live with them. Those living with PTSD can be easily startled, have nightmares, and avoid social situations.
This can wear out even the most dedicated, caring family members who only want to see the person they love return to a normal life.
Re-experiencing symptoms
Veterans who live with PTSD often relive or ‘re-experience’ traumatic war-time events through memories or dreams. This can come on quickly and appear seemingly out of thin air.
Triggers are difficult to avoid, and veterans with PTSD cannot help but re enter the traumatic space. This is deeply painful and terrifying for those living with PTSD, as their cortisol levels literally place them back into the event.
Children may not understand what’s happening
A difficulty for many veterans suffering from PTSD comes in having to explain to their children what is going on.
Especially in significant episodes, a child may become afraid of their parent, worry for them, or worry that the parent cannot take proper care of the child.
Avoidance and numbing
Re-experiencing symptoms for those with PTSD is extremely upsetting. Veterans, in fear of experiencing these painful symptoms, might try to avoid situations that bring up trauma.
This can lead to avoidance of things that once brought veterans joy. For example, going to the movies and sitting in the dark with loud noises might no longer be enjoyable. This can make those closest to the veteran feel cut off and unimportant, as the veteran might not be up for occasions that they used to love.
Lack of interest in social or sexual activities
Most survivors of PTSD will eventually be able to resume a level of intimacy that is similar to what they experienced before traumatic events.
For 5% to 10% of these survivors, however, lasting relationship problems may persist.
Because veterans with PTSD are so susceptible to irritability, jumpiness, and worriedness, relaxing through intimacy, social occasions, and sex might not possible.
Circular patterns can heighten problems
Veterans living with PTSD can cause problems with trust, communication, and problem solving in their most meaningful relationships.
In response, a loved one might respond with similar coldness or lack of communication, thus developing a circular pattern where no productive healing is taking place.
PTSD can affect partner’s mental health
Partners living with their loved ones through PTSD can also experience negative effects on their mental health. While they may not struggle through reliving experiences, they are prone to depression, anxiety, and other significant mental health issues that can impact their quality of life.
It can be very difficult for both veterans and their loved ones when PTSD is present.
But veterans are warriors, and can overcome these struggles.
Through spirituality and mindfulness, veterans can get better. Healing, forgiveness, and love can occur.
At Ascended Warrior, we are calling all warriors to learn to honor, embrace, and embody their spiritual selves in order to conquer the symptoms of PTSD and lead happy, fulfilled lives.