Reservists more likely to suffer from mental illness after service than full-time soldiers

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Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is not a new phenomenon, but it is a growing one both inside and outside of military service.

Recent studies have estimated that up to 17 percent of veterans since the Vietnam War have combat-related PTSD. It is recognized as a significant and costly illness to veterans, their families and society.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) standardized PTSD diagnosis about six months ago and has recognized that the disorder is more prevalent among activated reservists returning from war zones than it is among full-time military personnel. Other western countries, particularly the United Kingdom, have noted the same, but research into the phenomenon is intermittent at best.

Studies have largely been focused on multiple deployment effects rather than on whether those deployed were reservists or full-time military. Studies have also noted that today's more asymmetric warfare means that front line troops are not the only ones exposed to combat situations. Typically, reserve troops are used in support functions rather than front line combat, but the change in battle lines means those support troops are also often exposed to live fire and combat.

As evidence grows, it seems to be clear that while all soldiers can be exposed to situations that can cause PTSD, reservists are more likely to have the disorder when so exposed. The reasons are mostly conjecture but likely come down to training style and unit makeup.

Reservists are part-time soldiers and thus have generally less training for "combat hardening" than do their full-time counterparts. Reservists are also more likely to be women, of an older age, and to have many responsibilities outside of service that can create emotional trauma when exposed to life-threatening situations.

Attention to the problem of returning and current veterans is needed. Currently, only about 3 percent of the Department of Defense's total budget is spent on veterans. Perhaps it's time to re-think that budget.

 
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