History of Combat Disorders -- Symptoms and Diagnosis of PTSD -- Post Trauma PTSD Rates -- Family Difficulties -- The Veteran's Spouse -- Psychotherapy -- Cognitive Psychotherapy -- Shattered Assumptions -- Fear and Anxiety -- Psychological Treatments of Fear -- Memory Difficulties -- Nightmares and Flashbacks -- Social Avoidance -- Guilt -- Anger and Violence -- Depression and Suicidal Thoughts -- Low Self-Esteem -- Substance Abuse -- Medications -- Experimental Treatments -- Chronic Pain and PTSD -- Mild Traumatic Brain Injury and PTSD -- Special Combat Veteran Populations
Summary
This introduction to the invisible wound of war, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, explains the historical development of PTSD, its myriad symptoms and the most effective psychological and medical treatments. Combining the basic tenets of cognitive psychotherapy and his own military experience, the author explores such topics as PTSD's effects on families and spouses, fear and anxiety, memory difficulties, feelings of guilt or anger, depression and suicidal thoughts, and others. Because it is a hidden, psychological wound, veterans afflicted with PTSD may find it difficult to understand their symptoms
