By Kacy Mixon, M.S., LMFT
Our previous post discusses the signs and symptoms of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a pervasive problem affecting many who have and continue to serve in the military. We have also differentiated between PTSD and Post-traumatic Stress Symptoms (PTSS) that present problematic, yet less debilitating effects on those that have experienced trauma. One of this week’s featured resources is a book called The War at Home: One Family’s Fight Against PTSD. The author, Shawn J. Gourley delves into her own experience of her husband returning home after a tour in the Middle East where his ship was deployed to assist Operation Enduring Freedom. Professionals working with military families who experience the effects of PTSD can utilize this book to gain insight into what some families experience and/or provide families with which they work with this resource. Here’s one reviewer’s synopsis:
“Cracks were already showing in his personality, cracks that would widen dramatically into full-on fractures by the time he returned home in June 2004 from his third tour that marked the end of his military career. For the next 4 1/2 years their relationship was very difficult, and at times, downright terrifying for her and the children. It wasn’t until January 2009 that Justin was able to get treatment. He was finally diagnosed with PTSD in August 2009. Those are the broad strokes of their story, but the details of how Shawn fought to save her family will leave you transfixed until the end.”
Finding support when dealing with family members who have been diagnosed with PTSD can be difficult and often requires great courage. Another resource that we’ve found is a non-profit Facebook (FB) page called Military with PTSD which offers a support network for families affected by PTSD. The page was started by Shawn J Gourley, author of the aforementioned book. The FB page offers an online community for veterans, spouses, and all caretakers to learn about and understand PTSD. It also serves as a space where:
“…both peer support and peer education through connection to others who really do understand and can relate. On the page, nobody sugarcoats any aspect of PTSD including the domestic violence that can happen.”
The online support group also aims to educate families so they know what to expect so they can be prepared if PTSD affects their home as well as educate law enforcement so they understand and recognize signs and symptoms of PTSD.
This post was written by Kacy Mixon, M.S., LMFT, Social Media Specialist. She works with other members of the Family Development team to support the development of military professionals working with families. Find out more about the Military Families Learning Network here and on Facebook.