Kevlar for the Mind: Stress reduction, social support may ward off PTSD - Off Duty, Military Health and Fitness - Air Force Times

Kevlar for the Mind: Stress reduction, social support may ward off PTSD

Clinical psychologist Bret A. Moore answers your questions.

Q. I’ll be going to Afghanistan in a few months. This is my first deployment and I’m worried about developing post-traumatic stress disorder. Is there anything I can do to prevent it?

A. Unfortunately, unlike the flu or measles, PTSD cannot be prevented with a vaccination. It’s a complicated psychiatric disorder with numerous factors contributing to its development.

However, research has found that a number of protective factors may reduce a service member’s risk of developing the disorder, or at least reduce the impact of the symptoms. These include supportive friends and family, a low baseline level of hostility, high self-esteem, adequate pre-deployment training, and better training and preparation to respond to a traumatic event.

Risk factors for developing PTSD include feeling powerless over things that happen to you, lack of social support, chronic levels of stress, and alcohol and drug abuse. A recent study also found that troops with panic disorder, depression or other psychiatric illnesses were twice as likely to develop PTSD during deployment compared to those who didn’t have pre-existing conditions.

Developing strong social networks, reducing stress and substance use, and addressing any pre-existing psychiatric conditions before deploying will help. Remember, 50 percent to 90 percent of individuals encounter trauma during their lifetime; only about 8 percent develop PTSD. These odds are in your favor.

Q. I’m headed to sea in a few months. I can’t stop worrying about my wife and children. What can I do to prepare them for my absence?

A. There are several things you can do. Give them as much information as you can. Let them know where you will be stationed, what your working and living conditions will be like, and how often you’ll be able to communicate. What you tell your children depends on their age and level of understanding.

To better prepare your spouse, make sure the finances are squared away before you leave. Review the procedure for making an emergency Red Cross call in case something happens when you are gone. And discuss how important dates such as birthdays, anniversaries and graduations will be handled.

Make a commitment with your children to write letters once a week. Give them something they can remember you by, such as a charm, favorite book or picture. And reassure them that you will be safe, thinking of them, and coming home soon.

Preparing a family for deployment is not easy. Don’t worry. Families are resilient and can survive the toughest of deployments.

Bret A. Moore is a clinical psychologist who served in Iraq and is the author of “Wheels Down: Adjusting to Life after Deployment.” Click here to email Bret. Names and identifying details will be kept confidential. This column is for informational purposes only. Readers should see a mental health professional or physician for mental health problems.