Combat veterans with PTSD struggle with July 4 holiday

[TalkingDog]

http://www.stripes.com/news/us/combat-veterans-with-ptsd-struggle-with-july-4-holiday-1.228844

The problems for veterans dealing with post-traumatic stress extends beyond loud noises, said Bryan Batien, a counselor on the psychology staff of the Orlando VA Medical Center. Under normal circumstances, it takes up to six months for veterans to adjust to life back in the States. That includes being around crowds, unlearning the survival instinct of not trusting anyone, and recognizing the triggers that bring back bad memories.

For those suffering from post-traumatic stress, the process can take much longer, Batien said.

"I have veterans who have spent the Fourth of July locked in their closets. It's not a time of celebration for some of them," he said.

[Arctic Dave]

1. Iraqis struggle with PTSD everyday.

Except the noises aren't fireworks, they're car bombs.

[TalkingDog]

2. I struggle with DUSD from posters who are only out to score "points" with their commentary

instead of actually contributing to a conversation