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Nonprofit group helps veterans overcome traumatic experiences

By Staff Writer

With the constant stream of veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is increasing dramatically. Due to the fact that many of these former soldiers are unable to get the help they need from the government, large numbers are turning to nonprofit groups.

The group U.S. VETS recently launched a new program that is aimed at helping identify returning soldiers who may suffer from PTSD. Officials said that up to 20 percent of returning combat troops experienced trauma during their service that may lead to PTSD. However, fewer than 40 percent of these individuals seek treatment for their condition.

The program seeks to identify these veterans and help them find appropriate therapy. The group also provides transitional housing for some veterans to help them through the shock of readjusting to civilian life.

Officials said that most treatment options for veterans who suffer from PTSD rely on identifying sufferers after problems have emerged. However, their approach seeks to provide help to those who have suffered trauma before major problems can occur. They believe that this could help reduce the severity of the condition and enable veterans to get back to normal lives more quickly.