After serving several tours, including Afghanistan, Stephen Kelly came home in 2012 with possible traumatic brain injury (TBI) from an explosive bomb accident. Soon after his return, his wife, Kasey, noticed signs of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) , including anger and aggressiveness towards her.
“Stephen used to be easygoing, but he became much more sullen, distant and angry at the worst of times. It’s still a battle to get him out in public places, especially when there is a crowd,” Kasey explains. “Almost 14 years later, he still has nightmares and has to be reminded that he is home and safe.”
Stephen has seen countless doctors over the years and manages his PTSD through cognitive behavioral therapy, peer support, medication and animal therapy through their farm in Wirtz, Virginia.
“I struggle as a caregiver, but I continue because I love him,” Kasey explains. “I would want someone to love me through the pain and hardship of finding a new normal.”
The Kellys are just one of many military families affected by PTSD. An estimated 7 out of every 100 veterans will be diagnosed with PTSD, according to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA).
[ READ: How Can I Find the Best Psychiatrist? ]
What Is PTSD?
PTSD is a mental health condition that develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event.
The signs and symptoms of PTSD vary in intensity and present differently from person to person. It affects emotions, thoughts and behaviors, often leading to distressing symptoms, such as:— Avoidance . This can involve steering clear of people, places or situations that trigger memories of the trauma or avoiding conversations or thoughts about the trauma.— Cognitive and emotional changes . Trouble concentrating, memory problems, depression or emotional outbursts are signs of cognitive and emotional changes.— Hyperarousal . Being easily startled, feeling on edge or having trouble sleeping can indicate hyperarousal.— Intrusive memories . These can come in the form of flashbacks including visual, auditory or other sensory experiences, nightmares or distressing thoughts.— Negative changes in mood and thinking . For some, this may involve feeling numb, guilt, shame, irritability, becoming detached from loved […]
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