What might veterans experience as a result of terroristic
acts?
Veterans, like other individuals, respond to traumatic
situations in a variety of ways. They feel concern, anger, fear,
and helplessness, which are all normal responses to an abnormal
event. However, research indicates that people who have
previously survived traumatic events may be particularly
sensitive to the effects of later traumatic events such as
terroristic acts and war. In general these events can cause a
range of symptoms from general distress to an increase in PTSD
symptoms, irritability, anger, alcohol and substance use,
sensitivity to military stimuli, sleep disturbance, and
avoidant/phobic reactions. Some individuals might anticipate and
prepare for the worst possible future circumstances so they are
not retraumatized by a subsequent shock. Studies of a recent
American terroristic situation and of a recent military situation
have provided information about some of the effects such events
have on veterans.
Following the Oklahoma City bombing, some veterans of World
War II, the Korean War, and some of those in the war during the
Vietnam era reacted by experiencing the following more than they
had before the bombing:
More frequent military and homecoming memories
Depressed mood
General distress
Posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms
Veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder may be
particularly susceptible to reactivation or a worsening of their
PTSD symptoms if reexposed to military situations.
During the Gulf War:
Vietnam veterans followed media coverage of the Gulf War
closely and reported that the coverage brought back thoughts
and feelings of Vietnam.
The reactivation or worsening of PTSD symptoms experienced
by some veterans may have been related to similarities in the
traumatic experiences (e.g., planes were a major part of both
events). Situations that have high emotional or symbolic value,
such as veteran gatherings or American symbols, also can
reactivate or worsen PTSD symptoms.
How can veterans take care of themselves when current events
cause distress?
Below is a list of potentially helpful strategies that
veterans with or without PTSD can use to help them cope during
periods of disaster.
For Yourself
Consider limiting your exposure to television coverage.
While watching television coverage of terroristic or military
action may be compelling, increased viewing can raise stress
levels. Monitor yourself for signs of anger, rage, depression,
anxiety, etc., and take a time-out from the coverage to allow
yourself to recover from these feelings.
As much as possible, keep up with daily schedules and
routines. Try to incorporate positive activities into your day,
even for brief periods of time.
Keep up with your physical needs relating to exercise,
food, and sleep.
Feel what you feel. It is normal to feel a range of
emotions. Having these feelings is to be expected; how you deal
with them is most important.
Slow down and give yourself time and space to deal with
what has happened.
Remember that people have their own pace for dealing with
traumatic incidents, and it is important to listen to and honor
your own pace.
Count on feeling angry, but temper your actions with
wisdom. Try to stay calm and avoid reacting with impulsive
anger toward any group or persons. Consider the long-term
consequences of these actions for the overall benefit of the
country.
Talk with someone close to you who might understand what
you are going through.
Studies suggest that if you do not feel like talking,
writing in a journal may be helpful for dealing with intense
feelings.
While it may feel more natural to avoid other veterans as a
way to avoid reminders of military involvement, studies show
that seeking support along with other veterans can be very
helpful when stress is increasing. This can be done through the VA, Vet Centers,
and Veteran's Service
Organizations.
Seek assistance from your medical doctor or a
mental-health professional who is skilled in working with
survivors of trauma if:
You are experiencing any symptoms that are causing
significant distress, causing significant changes in
relationships, or impairing functioning at work
You are self-medicating with alcohol or drugs
You are unable to find relief using the strategies listed
above
For Children in Your Life
Honestly and openly answer any questions that children in
your life may have. Safety is of primary concern for them.
Reassure them that adults are working hard to make society
safe.
During this traumatic time, kids will be looking to adults
to help them understand and cope with their feelings. Be a
positive role model for them by showing them how you are able
to handle this national crisis.
For Your Community
Support your neighbors, friends, family members, and fellow
veterans.
Talk to others whom you trust. Talking can help you process
painful feelings.
Expect that you may have fantasies of revenge. Try to
transform these feelings by contributing to support efforts in
a positive way (e.g., donate blood, give money to the Red
Cross, volunteer, donate to a food bank). Encourage others to
do the same.
Avoid blaming people whom you may associate with a
particular religious or ethnic group. Rather than decreasing
distress, depression, and other PTSD symptoms, increasing anger
toward and blame of others has been shown to increase veterans'
debilitating symptoms.
Try to join together, demonstrate patience, and help other
Americans in times of hardship.