14,375 vets diagnosed as of March 2015, according to documents
CBC News
Posted: Jul 16, 2015
Johnston told CBC News better awareness and openness about PTSD and mental health issues in general has made it easier for veterans to come forward for help.
The number of veterans diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder has almost tripled in the last eight years, according to Veterans Affairs Canada documents obtained by CBC News.
In 2007, 5,548 vets were diagnosed with PTSD according to a Parliamentary Committee report. That number jumped to 14,375 as of March of this year.
The numbers also show the overall number of veterans who receive disability benefits from Veterans Affairs has doubled to 22,567 during the same period.
The statistics surprised veteran advocates like Michael Blais, president and founder of Canadian Veterans Advocacy.
Numbers double what advocate expected
"I think it's extraordinary. I estimated the numbers would be over 10,000 but not much more. It's symbolic of the fact that many more are finally coming forward, fighting through the stigma self-identifying that they had been wounded and seeking treatment," said Blais.
Some people working in the mental health field say they're are not as shocked over the figures.
Mark Johnston is a psychiatrist who works both in Halifax and Kentville. He has been working with the Department of National Defence and Veterans Affairs since 2003.
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