Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Veterans, like other people, respond to traumatic events in a number of ways. They may feel concern, anger, fear, or helplessness. These are all typical responses to a violent, malicious, or traumatic event. However, research shows that people who have been through trauma, loss, or hardship in the past may be even more likely than others to be affected by new, potentially traumatic events.

Traumatic events can cause a range of reactions. In response to new traumatic events, Veterans may:

• have general distress or see an increase in their PTSD symptoms
• become quick to anger, sleep poorly, or drink more heavily
• try to avoid all reminders or media about the incident, or shy away from social situations

Recent traumatic events may also trigger old memories among Veterans. When facing a new traumatic event some Veterans expect and/or prepare for the worst based on their past experiences. For example, Veterans may:

• become overly protective, vigilant, and guarded
• become preoccupied with danger
• feel a need to avoid being shocked by, or unprepared for, what may happen in the future

Some symptoms can include:

• military and homecoming memories
• depressed mood
• general distress
• use and abuse of alcohol or other substances

To learn about healthcare and treatment options, please for Contact the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Crisis Line: 988, press 1

For more information, visit their website.

The PTSD Coach app was developed by the Department of Veterans Affairs to learn about and how to cope with symptoms of PTSD.  Research studies have shown that PTSD Coach can reduce PTSD symptoms, especially when used as part of therapy. The app may also help with symptoms of depression. PTSD Coach is not meant to replace professional care. 

Download the PTSD Coach

Ask, “Did you experience significant trauma while serving?”

If deemed necessary, consult the Primary Care DSM-5 (PC-PTSD-5); a five-item screen designed to identify individuals with probable PTSD or trauma (see five questions below).

Sometimes things happen to people that are unusually or especially frightening, horrible, or traumatic. For example:

A serious accident or fire.

A physical or sexual assault or abuse.

An earthquake or flood.

A war.

Seeing someone be killed or seriously injured.

Having a loved one die through homicide or suicide.

Have you experienced this kind of event?

Yes or No

If no, please stop here

If yes, proceed with the following questions:

1. In the past month, have you:

Had nightmares about the event(s) or thought about the event(s) when you did not want to?

Yes or no

2. Tried hard to not think about the event(s) or went out of your way to avoid situations that reminded you of the event(s)?

Yes or no

3. Been constantly on guard, watchful, or easily startled?

Yes or no

4. Felt numb or detached from people, activities, or your surroundings?

Yes or no

5. Felt guilty or unable to stop blaming yourself or others for the event(s) or any problems the event(s) may have caused?

Yes or no

How to measure results: Each “Yes” response counts as one. Any respondents with a score of >1 should be referred to a Veteran-centric PTSD program. Contact Veteran Crisis Line: call 988 and press 1.