About PTSD
An estimated 14,000 Arizona veterans suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health problem that some people develop after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening event, like combat, a natural disaster, a car accident, or sexual assault. Members of the military who have seen combat have more than likely been exposed to horrible and life-threatening experiences. In many cases, these experiences can lead to PTSD.
There are other factors that can cause military personnel to experience PTSD including what they actually do in combat, politics associated with the conflict, the location of the combat, the enemy they are facing, sexual assault and sexual harassment.
PTSD is estimated to have affected 20% of veterans from the war in Iraq, 10% of Gulf War veterans and up to 30% of Vietnam War veterans.
PTSD symptoms usually start soon after the traumatic event, but they may not appear until months or years later. People with PTSD may experience feelings of hopelessness, shame, or despair, depression or anxiety, or even chronic pain. In some cases, PTSD can lead to employment problems, drinking or drug problems, and relationship problems.
At Dogs4Vets, our service dogs are trained to disrupt negative behavior or get help amongst numerous other skills. These proven results are well documented in testimonials by our veterans and throughout the VA hospital doctors and clinicians.