Combat Stress

Key symptoms include: Irritability and anger outbursts; Excessive fear and worry; Headaches and fatigue; Depression and apathy; Loss of appetite; Problems sleeping; Changes in behavior or personality. Don't blame yourself or a family member. Like an overused muscle, the brain must heal from excessive trauma. Consider if your body’s getting enough nutrients, exercise, and rest (7-9 hours sleep), your body and can protect you from too much stress. Practice relaxation techniques this includes doing things you enjoy, using humor, deep breathing (it relaxes the nervous system). Combat stress differs from PTSD because the disorder is brief and symptoms often disappear after being home for a few months, or even weeks. Post-traumatic stress disorder can often interfere with a person’s daily responsibilities and requires sessions with a mental health professional and methods to process difficult emotions. Symptoms are more specific – such as recurrent dreams or flashbacks – following a traumatic event as part of the combat experience. Call the Military Crisis Line at 800-273-8255, and press 1.