Recurrent, intrusive, and distressing thoughts about the event
Recurrent dreams, nightmares (sometimes called "night-terrors")about the event
Flashbacks (a sense of reliving the event)
Distress caused by reminders of the event (sights, sounds, smells)
Alienation, isolation, and avoidance of people and places
Emotional numbing
No sense of future
Survivor guilt (for having survived when others did not, or for behavior required for survival)
Difficulty falling or staying asleep
Anger and rage
Difficulty concentrating or remembering
Hyper-vigilant, or survivalist behavior
Exaggerated startled response (usually to loud noises)
These symptoms may lead to substance abuse or other self-destructive addictive behavior.
Symptoms of PTSD include, but are not limited to:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a condition recognized by the American Psychiatric Association (APA). Criteria for diagnosing PTSD are published in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (commonly referred to as the DSM-IV). PTSD first appeared in this manual, published by the APA, in 1980 after significant research studies with Vietnam combat veterans.
Message from Fire-Base Hope Founder/President
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is something that I feel that all veterans who served in a war situation suffer from. Some worst than others. It can and will destroy you if you let it. I know because I have been there. I put 10 years in the Army including 18 months in Vietnam. I got out after 10 years because I could just not cope with military life any longer. Once I got out I found I could not adjust or cope with civilian life. I could not keep a job, I rebelled against any type of supervision. Over the years I came close to being homeless and attempted suicide several times. I went through numerous marriages and relationships. Many of those ended because they could not get used to my depression, nightmares and flashbacks. I would avoid anything that reminded me of Nam. I fought these problems for 30 years. Finally I accepted the fact that something was wrong with me and sought help. I am now 100% disabled through the Veterans Administration, 70% of that is from severe PTSD. With medication and counseling I can now lead a productive life and enjoy what's left of my life. If we can help 1 of the 10's of thousands of vets who still suffer from PTSD we will succeed. There is Help for you!!!! Suicidal thoughts are unacceptable. If you need help or know a vet who needs help check out the resources on this page. Thank you....Larry Birdsell
If you are feeling lost, depressed or you just can't cope with life anymore...
STOP!
CALL 1 800 273-TALK (8255) to speak to someone who cares.!!!!!! Lines open 24/7
Your call will be transfered to a local Vets hotline. Don't wait. Its up to you to take the first step!
This Guest Book is for your questions about PTSD. It is monitored daily by someone who will attempt to answer your questions or steer you in the right direction.
Click here for Veterans PTSD Help Center
