• PTSD Resources

When a soldier is wounded, the family
and community also are wounded.

Michael Wagner, Ph.D.
Walter Reed Army Medical Center

What is PTSD?

In 1980, the American Psychiatric Association officially named and defined the results of traumatic experience as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD. …PTSD is not a mental illness. PTSD…is a reaction to the extreme stress people encounter during threats of danger…. The level of stress may hinder (them) in adjusting to civilian…life after the experiences.

Down Range: To Iraq and Back
Bridget C. Cantrell, Ph.D. and Chuck Dean

The Spiritual Challenge of PTSD

Our military members fight two wars - one on the battlefield…and one in their souls after they return home. For thousands of veterans and their families, despair has become an unwelcome, but constant companion.

Nearly 1 in 5 returnees from Iraq and Afghanistan will suffer from PTSD, and less than 40% of these will seek help. Their suicide rate is almost twice the national average, and 2 out of 3 of their marriages are failing.

How You Can Help

• You can be a bridge of healing. You don’t have to be a veteran, or a psychologist, or a pastor. Can you pray? Can you provide a meal? Can you reach out and be a friend? Can you listen to someone tell his or her painful story?
• There are many practical ways you and your church can become bridges of healing, bringing these wounded warriors closer to God, so that He can help them.

Learn more about this ministry:

• Email info@ptsdhealing.org
• Request a copy of the “Bridges to Healing” video

Suggested Resources for Veterans and Churches