Fighting for our Soldiers
the problem:
Preventing and providing adequate support for Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome for our active duty American Soldiers.
vital stats:
people impacted:
20people involved:
5why it's important:
Having numerous relatives which have served in Iraq, I have first hand seen the affect of Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome on our soldiers. My sister is currently in Iraq serving our country. My parents and I are helping to raise her daughter until her return to America. I care for my sister and neice and want the proper support to prevent or help her return to her family and home.
the plan of action:
Preventative care is the best cure in all situations. Preparation for soldiers should be very detailed. Soldiers should know what to expect and how to deal with it. Support should be offered for soldiers in war zones. Soldiers should be taught how to recognize signs of depression and other serious mood disorders in theirselves and fellow soldiers. My sister called from Iraq very startled to learn that a soldier that could not handle the stress committed a suicide bombing because he could not adequately deal with the stress. This not only took his life but also took five other soldiers lives. Therapy should also be offered for every soldier post war zone exposure. This service is provided for wounded soldiers, but is over looked for non wounded soldiers. Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome may take months to develop. It should be offered over a wide spread of time. Support is what our soldiers need, and support is what we should offer. They risk their lives for our lifestyle and the least we can do is to help keep a homeostasis of their mental status.
how you can get involved:
Volunteering. Some times all anyone needs is someone to listen to them. I think a penpal program for soldiers should be developed. A soldier knowning that a child back home respects them and is grateful can make all the difference. There is no better innocence and understanding than a childs. I think this could be a great learning experience for both the youth of America and our soldiers.
Comments
This sounds like an awesome project! You should apply for a grant (if you haven't already!)
www.DoSomething.org/grants