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I am not only thankful this holiday, but day-in-and-day-out for all those who serve. Most times, we live our hectic lives and do think about the sacrifice being made by all the members of the armed forces. I want to take this opportunity to officially THANK YOU ALL for your service!!!
Negative Consequences
Besides being an honorable position, being part of the Armed Forces is extremely strenuous. Unfortunately, serving can have negative after-effects for some. It can take a toll, not only physically but mentally and emotionally. Obviously, physical injuries are devastating but there are deeper scars than the visible ones.
It is estimated that veterans have about a 50 percent higher rate of suicide than civilians. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, it looks like roughly 22 veterans commit suicide per day. Some believe that this is an exaggerated number while others suggest that this figure undercounts suicides. Either way, the bottom line is that the rates of suicide are higher among veterans than for the rest of the population. And thats indisputable!
You may ask how is this possible.. Well, the majority of veteran suicides can be attributed to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Having a mental health background, I have seen first hand the horrible effects of PTSD.
This disorder takes place sometimes after experiencing a traumatic event and involves four cluster of symptoms:
symptoms dealing with intrusion (flashbacks, nightmares, recurring thoughts)
symptoms of avoidance (avoiding places/people/objects that are a reminder of the trauma)
negative alterations in cognitions and mood (negative thoughts about themselves/ others/ the world, feelings of guilt and blame, difficulty remembering facts about the event, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities or people, feelings of depression)
alterations in arousal and reactivity (being easily startled, feeling tense, edgy or anxious, having outburst of anger, difficulty sleeping)
PTSD is devastating for the individuals experiencing it, as well as for their loved ones. Unfortunately, it is often accompanied by substance abuse, which itself can increase depression and suicidal thoughts. Drinking and/or using drugs as a way to cope with the internal anguish should be avoided since it only worsens the situation.
Veterans Day aims to honor military veterans. This day remind us to be thankful for all those who served in the United States Armed Forces. It is also an opportunity to express our gratefulness towards those who are actively serving and risk their well being for this country on the continuous basis.
I am not only thankful this holiday, but day-in-and-day-out for all those who serve. Most times, we live our hectic lives and do think about the sacrifice being made by all the members of the armed forces. I want to take this opportunity to officially THANK YOU ALL for your service!!!
Negative Consequences
Besides being an honorable position, being part of the Armed Forces is extremely strenuous. Unfortunately, serving can have negative after-effects for some. It can take a toll, not only physically but mentally and emotionally. Obviously, physical injuries are devastating but there are deeper scars than the visible ones.
It is estimated that veterans have about a 50 percent higher rate of suicide than civilians. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, it looks like roughly 22 veterans commit suicide per day. Some believe that this is an exaggerated number while others suggest that this figure undercounts suicides. Either way, the bottom line is that the rates of suicide are higher among veterans than for the rest of the population. And thats indisputable!
You may ask how is this possible.. Well, the majority of veteran suicides can be attributed to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Having a mental health background, I have seen first hand the horrible effects of PTSD.
This disorder takes place sometimes after experiencing a traumatic event and involves four cluster of symptoms:
symptoms dealing with intrusion (flashbacks, nightmares, recurring thoughts)
symptoms of avoidance (avoiding places/people/objects that are a reminder of the trauma)
negative alterations in cognitions and mood (negative thoughts about themselves/ others/ the world, feelings of guilt and blame, difficulty remembering facts about the event, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities or people, feelings of depression)
alterations in arousal and reactivity (being easily startled, feeling tense, edgy or anxious, having outburst of anger, difficulty sleeping)
PTSD is devastating for the individuals experiencing it, as well as for their loved ones. Unfortunately, it is often accompanied by substance abuse, which itself can increase depression and suicidal thoughts. Drinking and/or using drugs as a way to cope with the internal anguish should be avoided since it only worsens the situation.
