PTSD Rates Jump for Iraq and Afganistan Vets
The Oregonian ran a front page story on the striking increase in mental illness among soldiers returning Iraq and Afganistan Vets. This study, from the American Journal of Public Health , is one of the first to suggest that the higher mental illness rates are due to the fact that more of the soldiers serving in the Middle East are older, and reservists. On a positive note, increased awareness about PTSD and a willingness to discuss the issue may factor into the increase in reported cases.
I've had the honor of representing several Veterans, including Viet Nam Vets. Saigon fell when I was ten years old, and I never thought that I would be representing Veterans from that conflict so many years later. I expect that our troops will be dealing with the effects from these wars for years to come, and hope we are better prepared to offer the help they deserve.
Other Links:
Iraqi War Veteran's Association
