Misconceptions about PTSD and truths behind them

Unfortunately, like many other illnesses and disorders, there are several misconceptions about PTSD. A lot of people think they know all about it from the little they’ve seen on television, or after a horrible event involving a person suffering from PTSD. 

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For example, some people mistaken believe that the effects of PTSD manifest themselves almost immediately after a traumatic experience. The false belief goes on further to note that a person who doesn’t show signs of PTSD after some time is clear of the disorder. While it is true that many PTSD symptoms come out in the first three months after the event, for some individuals, it could take months and even years before the person begins to unravel. 

Another myth is that only war veterans are in danger of being affected by PTSD. While it is true that many soldiers are tragically struck by this disorder, ordinary citizens are very much vulnerable to traumatic experiences that lead to PTSD. A lot of women who experience sexual assault and battery live in constant fear, with more often than not symptoms of PTSD. 

One of the most unfortunate things about PTSD is that people believe it is a weakness that can be overcome simply by willpower. This is a very similar sentiment to the misconception of depression, that it is a choice. Sadly, these disorders have been well-researched by science, and it takes a lot more than willing it to go away, for it to actually go away. 

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The nonprofit organization Helping A Hero provides war veterans, especially those suffering from PTSD, assistance and support. Follow this Facebook page to learn more about the organization and what it has to offer.

The long-term, psychological effects of war on veterans

War and other military conflicts can have long-lasting, adverse effects on veterans. The more apparent consequences are the physical injuries that soldiers suffer from because of combat. However, there are psychological effects that people should be aware of as these may not immediately be obvious.

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Two of these possible effects are the following: 

Shell shock
The term shell shock is a psychological syndrome that was believed to have begun during World War I, particularly during the Battle of the Somme in 1916 when a huge number of shell shock cases was recorded. Originally, the condition was caused by the impact of loud shelling, which soldiers had never been exposed to before. Now, shell shock is described as combat stress reaction, which is still due to the trauma of bombardment. In some cases, combat stress reaction has lingering effects on veterans even well after they have been removed from war zones. 

 PTSD 

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a serious medical condition that many soldiers suffer from. It is caused by a highly traumatic event, which is far too common in combat zones. According to estimates, one in five veterans who had been to Iraq and Afghanistan during the War on Terror experience some levels of PTSD or major depression. 

With the right care, veterans with PTSD can recover from the condition and eventually live a normal life.

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Since 2006, Helping A Hero has helped severely injured veterans returning from service in the War on Terror by providing them homes that are modified to meet their needs. Know more about the nonprofit organization by visiting this website.

Injured Purple Heart awardee gets fresh start

In 2008, while serving in Afghanistan, US Air Force MSgt. Zac Rhyner suffered a severe leg injury that shattered his femur. It was his sixth deployment. The incident forced him to retirement, a big blow for the three-time Purple Heart awardee, likewise a recipient of a Bronze Star and the Air Force Cross.

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Rhyner misses serving his country in the field. But the much-decorated veteran set his mind on moving past the forced retirement and the life-changing injury. It took the injury more than a year to heal, but since then he has started a family. Buoyed by a caring, supportive wife and the birth of his two sons, he now hopes to go back to school and pursue a career as a physician assistant.

A much-welcome nudge onward was the news that their new house was ready, a grant made possible via the Helping a Hero charity. The organization helped the Rhyners build a new, custom-designed house in Holly Springs, North Carolina. The family moved in just last May 22, and the community welcomed the veteran and his family with open arms.

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To support and empower severely wounded veterans returning from service in the War on Terror, Helping A Hero was established in 2006. The nonprofit, non-partisan organization’s primary activity is providing these veterans homes specially adapted to meet their needs. Learn more about the organization and its mission and vision by visiting this website.