TO LIVE OR DIE IN DIXIE!

Are we failing our soldiers? Well maybe not us but the military? Loaded question? Absolutely... I just read an article on MSNBC.com http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/38472795/ns/health-mental_health/ Check out the link. (you may have to cut and paste). The problem with this is that the idea of failure is not anything new. Any Vietnam vets care to chime in? What about those who have asked their grandparents to talk about their war experiences in WWII or Korea? My guess is that they are very hesitant. Working in the mental health field, I have seen first hand what War time trauma/ stress can due to an individual. It is almost impossible to get someone treatment at the V.A for substance abuse and other mental health issues due to the long wait lists. Where is the disconnect? Too many young men and women come home with severe PTSD, increased aggression, nightmares, substance use, and like the "shell Shock" victims of WWII and Vietnam vets, they will grow older, many will fail to get help and end up with severe mental disorders such as schizophrenia or worse, they will suicide. The truth is, I don't have the answer. Now I know that might be a shock to many people (ha ha just kidding). The point is, I want to thank every man or woman who will, who currently is, or who ever has served in our nation's armed forces. I want to thank their loved ones for the sacrifice they too have had to endure. If you see or know someone who serves/served tell them thanks. Encourage them to seek help, or just talk to someone therapist/clergy member, somebody. Too many of our men and women have died overseas and it is a further travesty for those die for our country at their own hands and risky behavior.