Coping with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Returning Troops

Military post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common and disabling consequence of war, terrorism and natural disasters, which presents an increasing problem for service men and women around the world. It has been shown that those who serve in both combat missions and peacekeeping operations are at greater risk of developing PTSD as a result of the 'wounds of war'. These wounds may take the obvious form of physical disabilities, but 'invisible' wounds, such as depression, anxiety, stress and chronic pain may also lead to an increased risk of PTSD. This book presents full papers, focused on the key presentations from the NATO Advanced Research Workshop, Wounds of War: Coping with Posttraumatic Stress in Returning Troops, held in October 2009. These papers critically assess existing knowledge in the field and identify directions for future action. The book addresses the five key issues of PTSD: vulnerability, diagnosis and assessment, prevention, treatment and associated disorders. While PTSD may be an invisible illness, its effects are certainly not invisible.
Countries must work together to develop prevention and treatment strategies which ensure that service men and women everywhere are able to assimilate back into society to lead productive lives and enjoy the freedom they fought to protect. The purpose of this book is to contribute to this process.