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The definition for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder given by the Webster’s New World College Dictionary is, “a condition characterized by recurring and, often, disabling symptoms of anxiety, depression, etc., that later affects some persons who have experienced a traumatic event or situation, especially combat.” PTSD was first named Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome after the war because symptoms did not seem to appear for years, even decades (Arpey). After the symptoms actually did start showing up and making an impact on society, the government started to be concerned. They started doing extensive research on the syndrome and then went further to name it a disorder (Arpey). PTSD can occur in anyone-- no matter what …show more content…

They even believe that they will have a shortened life span (Frances 425). Much of PTSD trauma is brought on by guilt. The feeling that, “I should have done something to save them”, or “It should have been me, not him”, occur in the sufferers (Frances 425). It is difficult for these people to deal with the fact that they survived and someone that they cared about had to die. This is one of the main reasons that PTSD sufferers have a problem getting too close to anyone while dealing with all of these emotions. They fear that they will be put in a similar situation that would resemble what happened to them in Vietnam. It is imperative for them to avoid these situations and thoughts at all costs. (Frances 425). PTSD brings a lot of pain and suffering upon Vietnam veterans and their families, but the good news is that there is help for them. Therapists have studied many PTSD patients and found different helpful approaches to use (Friedman). Some of the most common therapeutic treatments are: Psychodynamic therapy, cognitive--behavioral therapy, pharmacotherapy, group, family, couples, and inpatient treatment, and treatment for patients dually diagnosed with PTSD and alcoholism/substance abuse (Friedman). Alcohol and drug abuse is very commonly found in PTSD sufferers because it is the best way to take them away from their nightmares

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