Post traumatic stress disorder has existed for as long as war has. It has been called many names over the course of the years and the progression of society. These former names were “battle fatigue” , “shell shock” and “combat stress”. They may have been called different things but the reality is the experiences and the traumas were very similar. The effects of war are long lasting as the most current veteran suicide rate is approximately 20 a day.
Suicide is not the only negative result and choice made by veterans but drug and alcohol use among military members is on the rise. With these statistics the homeless veteran rate hit 11 percent amounting to over 50,000 veterans living on the street.

By: The U.S. Army

Many have views and assumptions of what PTSD and how a veteran will react who has a diagnosis with PTSD. Most of the assumptions are inaccurate even though the staggering number of veteran suicide and homelessness have risen. Many military personnel have productive lives after the diagnosis because of seeking treatment.

By: Moyan Brennatment.

The treatment options for veterans include group therapy, family counseling, individual counseling and recreational therapies. The increase of physical activity increased moods and combats depression related to PTSD. This also channels emotion and energy into a positive outlet. There are medications for anxiety and sleep aides that are prescribed to vets that have these symptoms. The nation is a free nation because of the veterans of the past and current and it is best to understand the battles they go through so they are not the only ones fighting for their lives when they get home