October 26, 2005

Knoxville (WVLT) - The 278th is returning from the most prolonged combat operation since the Vietnam War.

The war in Iraq is likely to produce a new generation of veterans with chronic health problems associated with being in combat.

Medical Reporter Jessa Goddard has more on post-traumatic stress disorder.

Only one study has examined the mental health impact of the war in Iraq, but the results indicate the estimated risk for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder from service in the Iraq war is nearly one in five troops.

It is a happy time for families of the 278th reuniting after more than a year of serving in the war in Iraq.

"Well, even when you reunite and you kiss and the cameras shoot the pictures, it doesn't mean everybody's alright,” says psychologist Dr. Richard Driscoll.

Combat operations in Iraq are intense; you see the images every night on the evening news.

But soldiers in Iraq live it every day, at risk of being killed or wounded, or witnessing the suffering of others.

"Think, how do you convince yourself that life is safe, that you're alright, when you're experience has taught you that it isn't?" explains Dr. Driscoll.

94% of soldiers in Iraq report receiving small arms fire.

Psychologist Richard Driscoll says PTSD symptoms occur a month after such a traumatic event occurs.

Physical symptoms include: a rapid heartbeat, headaches, stomach aches and muscle tension.

But the emotional symptoms of PTSD can be much worse, frustration, nervousness, discouragement and anxiety are common responses.

"Think of it like this, if you've been face to face with life and death day after day, then how much interest are you going to take about how to make the dinner?" says Dr. Driscoll.

Nothing in life may ever seem the same again to the troops of the 278th.

But the symptoms of PTSD usually become less severe over time.

And studies suggest in the face of combat, most men and women do remarkably well across the lifespan.

There is much that is still unknown about how soldiers adjust to the demands in this terrorism age.

If you have a family member or friend in the military, remember traumatic stress reactions are normal responses to abnormal events.

It's important to try to understand the stressors and traumas experienced by the country's newest veterans.

Story Copyright to WVLT Volunteer TV

(Note from MJ: Just a little clarification: It must be 30 days since the traumatic event ocurred for a diagnosis of PTSD. This doesn't necessarily mean that if after 30 days you are not experiencing the symptoms, you can never be diagnosed with PTSD. The symptoms can and do accur weeks, months or even years after the actual (initial) traumatic event. If you continue to experience symptoms that interfere with your ability to function daily after an appropriate amount of time to re-adjust, please see a professional mental health provider for evaluation.)