Take initiative with countering stress

I spoke with a Soldier, a seasoned Ranger NCO, who participated in the first phase of combat operations in Iraq.

He said he saw things that would change him forever. All Soldiers I speak with, who have been to Iraq or Afghanistan, make similar comments — but he went further. He said sometimes he sees, out of the corner of his eye, Iraqi soldiers emerging from the wood line at his quarters. When he looks directly, there is no one there. He feels embarrassed.

Once, when a neighbor was grilling chicken, he had a flashback to a time when he was exposed to the smell of burning human flesh. He said he instinctively hit the deck in a cold sweat when he heard the sounds of gunnery at night. Lying there crying, he felt foolish. His reactions are common for those exposed to the trauma of combat. Obviously, this was a strain on him, his work and his family. He realized he needed professional help. Thank goodness the stigma of behavioral medicine is beginning to leave and Soldiers can find help without fear of destroying careers.

By Chaplain (Capt.) Dan Hardin - The Bayonet

Read more: http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/2011/03/08/1489843/take-initiative-with-countering.html#ixzz1GJaghvlB