Military Families Face New Battles

I was asked to post the following article and after talking to the gentlemen I decided to go ahead and allow it. I know sometimes we take for granted that all of us military families are aware of the struggles our service members face and our families but maybe there are still some that do not know why and what is going on with their loved one.


Military families face new battles


Military families always seem to face more burdens than most in a normal family dynamic. The time after a soldier returns home is often regarded as one of the happiest times for these families. In some cases, however, that time can be extra confusing and difficult, primarily as a result to some of the health problems that are common with soldiers following their tours of duty.
PTSD, or post traumatic stress disorder is one of the most common examples of the invisible wounds that plague many soldiers these days. This is a type of anxiety disorder that is not exclusive to the military, but is a risk that is rather high with soldiers because it usually involves a reaction to a traumatic event. For soldiers, much of their time spent overseas or in service can contain life altering events. Treatment for PTSD usually requires cognitive behavioral therapy, which is a long and extended process that can often add more difficulty to the dynamic. A family’s support throughout this process can be of major importance, as a shoulder to lean on or someone to talk to can always be a break through.
Traumatic Brain Injury, also known as TBI is one of the signature wounds of the past ten years of war on terror. It involves a bruising of brain tissue and usually is the result of a violent accident or collision. Many cases of TBI go unknown; therefore observation of the symptoms is particularly important. Headaches, sleep problems, dizziness, and blurred vision are all common traits of soldiers with TBI. There is an absolute necessity to look for some of these symptoms. A family’s eye will allow any cases of TBI to be diagnosed and treated with the proper care as soon as possible.
Just like TBI, mesothelioma can often go unnoticed for years after any type of original exposure. This disease is a type of cancer that infects the lining of the body’s organs, often in the chest or abdomen area. Soldiers are often at risk to this because it has a direct correlation to asbestos exposure. Asbestos was a commonly used material throughout the past century in shipyards and bases all over the US. With many soldiers working in ships and barracks that contain this fiber, exposure was often inevitable. A family’s lookout for the symptoms of mesothelioma may end up being very important in the treatment process. Diagnosis for this disease is particularly important because of the severe outlook. Mesothelioma life expectancy is often as short as a year.
The general awareness of some of these common military wounds and health risks is particularly important in cutting down more severe cases. With the support and structure of family and friends upon arrival after a tour of duty, soldiers who may have to face any of these health risks will be as prepared as possible.


"Taylor Darden is ardent supporter of our troops and dedicated advocate of veterans' benefits. Having just recently graduated from college he is currently working to raise awareness of the dangers of invisible wounds. He currently lives in the southeastern United States, and is proud to live in the greatest country in the world. If you have any questions feel free to email him at dailydardan@gmail.com"