Traumatic Combat Experiences
Of those who have served in Afghanistan and Iraq, many reported having had the following experiences:
| Afghanistan | Iraq | |
| Being attacked or ambushed | 58% | 89% |
| Receiving incoming fire | 84% | 86% |
| Being shot at | 66% | 93% |
| Seeing dead bodies or remains | 39% | 95% |
| Knowing someone who was killed or seriously injured | 43% | 86% |
Source: A survey of “frequent combat experiences” reported by members of the Army in 2003, published in the Department of Veterans Affairs’ National Center for PTSD pamphlet “A Guide for Military Personnel.”
Disorders and Injuries
18.5% of vets return from Afghanistan and Iraq suffering from PTSD.
19.5% experienced traumatic brain injury (caused by percussive fire close to the head) while deployed.
50% of those experiencing symptoms seek help.
50% of those who seek help receive “minimally adequate care.”
Top 5 Barriers to Seeking Mental Health Care (soldiers’ reasons)
45% Medications might have too many side effects.
44% It could harm my career.
44% I could be denied a security clearance.
39% My family or friends would be more helpful than a mental health professional.
38% My co-workers would have less confidence in me if they found out.
Source: RAND Corp. study “Invisible Wounds of War: Psychological and Cognitive Injuries, Their Consequences, and Services to Assist Recovery,” released April 17 and available at veterans.rand.org.
This article appears in September 19 • 2008.