With all the other problems this country is facing these days and probably for the next several years, it’s easy to lose sight of the intense struggles of many G.I.’s coming back from overseas deployment in Iraq and Afganistan. Returning to civilian life for those who have been in combat is always difficult at best. Studies have shown that a third or more of the GI’s returning from combat in those countries – more than 300,000 men and women – have endured mental health difficulties. They have experienced the agony of deep depression and alarming numbers have tried or succeeded in committing suicide, according to an article by Bob Herbert, Op-Ed Columnist for the NYT. A CBS News study found that veterans aged 20 to 24 were two to four times as likely to commit suicide as non-veterans of the same age.
Founded in June 2004, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America is the nation's first and largest group dedicated to the Troops and Veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the civilian supporters of those Troops and Veterans. They have initiated an advertising campaign designed to increase the number of veterans seeking treatment for their mental health difficulties. There are so many who are embarrassed to speak about their problems or are unaware that help is available, or even that they need help.
The site is filled with features and news updates on many topics and information on a wide range of mental health resources. Their ads are powerful and send the message that: “If you’re a veteran of Iraq or Afghanistan, you’re not alone.”
This ad campaign, if disseminated widely enough (it is depending on donated media), will reduce the heartache of G.I.’s and their families and will save lives.
Combat does terrible things to people and there is a tremendous need for more attention. Paul Reickhoff, IAVA’s executive director put it this way: “Nobody can cross this river without getting wet.”
If you know of a G.I. that has recently returned from these tragic war zones and may be suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome – perhaps not even knowing exactly what it is – and many don’t, let them know that help is available. We may be able to help save these young lives by spreading the word of this organization and the work that it is doing.
Sylvia's world in thoughts and pictures
I miss you Sam!!
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I'm interested in almost everything. Use to like to travel, but it's too expensive now. I take Tai Chi classes, swim, volunteer in a Jump-start program for pre-schoolers. I'm an avid reader and like nearly everyone these days I follow politics avidly. I'm a former teacher and Special Projects Coordinator for a Telecommunications company, Assistant to the President of a Japanese silicon wafer manufacturing company. Am now enjoying retirement -- most of the time. I have two daughters, one son-in-law and two sons scattered all over the country. No grandchildren.
3 comments:
My oldest son, Keith, is 51. He served a year in Iraq as a member of the National Guard. After seeing a buddy in their barracks blown to smithereens suffers from PTSS and takes meds for it.
Very timely post. You are doing a great service to help disseminate this information, I hope sincerely that it reaches those in need.
My heart breaks for all these brave young men and women and can only hope that our country stands by them when they return.
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