Soldiers and therapists speak out on PTSD and suicides

U.S. Army Suicides At All Time High, Local Soldiers, Therapists Speak Out

Posted: July 22, 2010 06:35 PM EDT


Suicides among members of the US Army are at an all time high right now. Licensed counselors say post traumatic stress disorder plays a large role in that increase. One of the symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder is depression. Experts say the emotional numbness and isolation is a major contributing factor in soldier suicides but counselors say help is available.

Former Sergeant Jimmy Roberts spent 4 years with the 101st Airborne Division. He served two tours of duty in Iraq. After Roberts' first tour, he began noticing the symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder.

"Once I got out and things started calming down, that's when the night mares and flashbacks and all that stuff kind of affects you," said Jimmy Roberts.

Associate Licensed Counselor Terri Norwood has 2 sons in the Army. She has studied PTSD extensively. She says PTSD symptoms include sleep issues, aggression, agitation, flashbacks and depression.
read more here
http://www.waaytv.com/global/story.asp?s=12856472