New PTSD Therapies May Help Veterans Transition

Nebraska veterans may be interested to learn that advances in PTSD therapies may help those who are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. Many veterans who return to the United States often suffer mental injuries in addition to physical injuries, which may, in a worst case scenario, result in suicide. The Department of Veterans estimates that approximately 8,000 veterans commit suicide every year. It is hoped with new therapies that the number of veteran suicides will decrease.

For example, one 32-year-old man, who came home in 2003 after serving in Iraq, suffered from an intense rage that would not subside. He admitted to using alcohol, but stated that violence was his ‘drug of choice.” After his anger caused him to alienate his family, he ultimately became homeless. However, his entire attitude changed when a family member convinced him to seek therapy through an organization known as Pets for Vets. This organization matches veterans up with a canine companion.

In addition, many mental health workers are now being trained using the most advanced technology available to be better able to help veterans in need. For example, the University of Southern California’s School of Social Work and the Institute of Creative Technology developed a system that uses avatars. The avatars are able to respond to more than 2,200 questions that were compiled using experiences of veterans. This way, those who are training to work with veterans in the future can practice, make mistakes and correct them.

Veterans who are suffering from the effects of PTSD may be eligible to seek benefits from the VA. An attorney may be able to help their client verify a diagnosis of PTSD and to demonstrate the full impact of the mental disorder on the client’s ability to transition from soldier to civilian.

Source: My FOX LA, “New Therapies Helping Our Veterans Work Through PTSD “, Tony McEwing, November 11, 2013.