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Monday, March 12, 2012

High School student calls on community to help veterans

Viewpoint: Community must help returning soldiers re-adjust

Discrimination often arises out of ignorance, and we need to understand that these veterans will face many challenges as they re-adjust to civilian life. It is our responsibility as a community to make them feel welcome.

By: Jen Nutzman, South Washington County Bulletin

The war in Iraq has come to an end but for the people who have fought, the battle may just be beginning. Approximately one in eight soldiers returning home will suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. Post-traumatic stress disorder occurs after experiencing an overwhelming event such as a roadside bomb.

The number of deployment rates for one soldier is higher than ever before, causing higher PTSD occurrences. A person can experience acute PTSD, meaning the symptoms occur for a period of less than three months; chronic PTSD, where the symptoms last more than three months; or delayed onset PTSD, where symptoms occur at least six months after the event. The symptoms of PTSD can include flashbacks, too much or too little sleep, anger, numbness and avoidance. As a result of a harsh military experience, post-traumatic stress disorder takes a toll on the returning soldier’s health, economic stability and personal relationships.

Nutzman is a senior at East Ridge High School and member of the Cottage Grove Human Services/Human Rights Commission.
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