Countless people have suffered as a result of war. Around the world, many regions have dealt with violent conflicts that have spanned generations. Even for those who have been able to escape and settle down in safer places, the effects of surviving a war don’t just fade away. Additionally, many veterans struggle with war trauma, too. They may come home feeling conflicted about their service and wonder if their initial motivations for enlisting were worth everything that came after.
People who are living with war trauma often feel like those around them don’t understand what they’ve been through. They may not know how to get the help they need. Here are a few circumstances that can result in war trauma, as well as common symptoms and options for support.
The Roots of War Trauma
Someone who has witnessed events in the midst of war is susceptible to war trauma. This could include seeing people who were injured or killed, or participating in combat in any capacity. People who live in a region affected by war and have friends, neighbors, or relatives who were harmed, even if they were safe, may also grapple with war trauma.
Soldiers who were not involved with direct combat, yet contributed to the war in some way, might struggle with guilt and trauma because of their partial responsibility for the conflict.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Not everyone who experiences a traumatic situation during a conflict develops post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). But many do. PTSD brings several hallmark symptoms. These can include as painful flashbacks, night terrors and insomnia, hypervigilance, forgetfulness and memory loss, dissociation, and a lack of interest in activities that one previously enjoyed.
People with PTSD might isolate themselves from their loved ones and have difficulty maintaining relationships, which can worsen their symptoms.
Anxiety and Depression
Even if someone doesn’t develop PTSD in connection with war trauma, they might still suffer from an anxiety disorder or depression. They may find themselves constantly worrying that something bad will happen to them again, or that one of their loved ones will be hurt.
These fears of the future can hold them back from making progress. Depression and war trauma often go hand in hand. Living through conflict is deeply demoralizing and often involves heavy, ongoing grief for both people and places.
How War Trauma Can Manifest in Daily Life
War trauma can affect people in ways that they might not expect. Some people might drift further from their loved ones, while others might insulate themselves within their community. War trauma can shake one’s religious faith, yet it can push some people towards religion as a source of solace and support.
People with war trauma may wish they could return to the affected region to help in some way. On the other hand, others might feel like they never want to go home again and be reminded of what happened.
Overcoming War Trauma
People who have been affected by war trauma may want to specifically look for therapists who have in-depth experience treating PTSD, or who have worked with populations that have dealt with conflict. If you’re a veteran who is dealing with war trauma, you could benefit from connecting with therapists who treat veterans.
You could also join a support group for veterans. Should you have difficulty finding these particular services or programs in your area, telehealth opens up new possibilities. Search online for therapists who suit your requirements, and reach out to see who might be a good fit.
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