Stressed Soldiers: Cry for help

I've been thinking about this story and when I think about the fact they have not released the veteran's name, I don't think they should ever release it. Maybe they could just use his initials and keep his name out of the news. There are reasons for this but the biggest one is that this is about PTSD and the need to take care of the men and women we send. The other reason is they may be more willing to talk to the media if they can remain anonymous. Imagine for a second a National Guardsman in Florida reads a story about a veteran in Washington State opening up and talking about everything that he's going through with nothing held back. Don't you think that would encourage the Florida guardsman to open up as well knowing someone else just said the same thing? Ok, then what if it is a spouse reading the article and she finds all the same things in the way her husband is acting? Don't you think that would go a long way toward getting her to understand her husband? Maybe even get her to encourage him to read it too?

Releasing names is not as important as their story. If they feel totally comfortable talking and opening up, that's wonderful but if they are still afraid of having their names known, then maybe the reporters could just use their initials.

Stressed Soldiers: Cry for help
Posted: September 8, 2010

THE HOSTAGE-taking incident at Fort Stewart on Monday, which could have ended tragically, highlights the need for improved treatment of combat-related stress disorders.

According to military accounts, only the cool heads of the three hostages kept the situation from spiraling out of control.

The trio calmed the heavily armed former soldier — who entered Winn Army Community Hospital at 4 a.m. Monday seeking help for mental problems — until military police arrested him.

While the Army has not yet released the name of the former soldier, who’s now a civilian, his frustration was evident. You don’t show up at an emergency room in pre-dawn hours with four firearms if you’re having a nice day.

Officials released little information about the man’s history, although a senior commander was certain the former soldier was seeking help for mental problems connected to his military service.
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Stressed Soldiers: Cry for help