Understanding Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Veterans

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD is a mental health problem that occurs in people who have experienced a traumatic event. The condition affects about 7 percent of Americans and is thought to be a natural response to trauma, such as sexual abuse, physical assault, violence, or serious injury.

Although approximately eight million adults suffer from PTSD, one demographic is particularly affected by the disorder. American veterans frequently witness injuries, deaths, and other life-threatening events in and out of combat. Unfortunately, depending on the intensity of the trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder can have lifelong effects on veterans.