AN INTRODUCTION TO POST TRAUMATIC STRES DISORDER

Over six decades have passed since the World War II era and the youth of the time are in their later years of life. As one of the first modern wars, World War II had an immeasurable impact on the neurological well being of the citizens. One such neurological disorder resulting form the war is post traumatic stress disorder. PTSD can be defined as “a psychological reaction occurring after experiencing a highly stressing event (as wartime combat, physical violence, or a natural disaster) that is usually characterized by depression, anxiety, flashbacks, recurrent nightmares, and avoidance of reminders of the event” (Merriam Webster.) While the disorder is often related to more recent wars such as the Vietnam or Iraq war, there are actually many undocumented instances of PTSD in WWII veterans. At the time admitting to a disorder was much more stigmatized and simply unheard of or undiagnosed.

In a video interview, WWII American veteran Bob Thrasher describes the effect of PTSD in his life. He mentions not talking about his war stories, showing how veterans from the era perhaps were discouraged from discussing the horrors of war. He addresses that post-traumatic stress disorder was not considered after the war, as his superiors would yell “son of a bitch …get back to the front…yellow bellied coward.” Such repressed memories can cause depression and confusion. His descriptions of killing are the most vivid illustrations he provides, and his repetition of killing women and children, reveals the regret and disturbing memories created from war. He then discusses “doing stupid things” in his later years, without understanding why or having control over his actions, further demonstrating the effect of PTSD on his day to day life.

Unfortunately, Bob Thrasher is one of hundreds of elderly veterans suffering from PTSD, many of which are undiagnosed or treated. With the lack of knowledge on the subject post WWII, the veterans were unable to receive treatment at an earlier stage. As a result many veterans live with the disorder unknowingly, causing confusion and depression. This depression can lead to substance abuse and isolation creating a much more turbulent life that could lead to health issues in aging.

In a study performed by the American Geriatrics Society, Dr. Land Rintamaki found that PTSD usually is exacerbated after retirement. More than fifty percent of the veterans in the study stated that symptoms worsened post retirement. Perhaps this could be related to the fact that with less time spent on working in old age, one's mind wanders to the disturbing parts of his or her life. Also in old age, the elderly often lose people who could have provided mental support such as a spouse or comrade.

source:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=96AW-435J8E

herald times online multimedia

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