The Other Cost of War

PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), sometimes called "shell shock", is a well documented and researched disorder with profound effects on war veterans. During Gulf War I an estimated 9% of veterans suffered from PTSD, but conservative estimates for the Afghanistan and Iraq conflicts say up to 17% of our soldiers are returning with symptoms that make their lives unmanagable. Fort Bragg experienced four murder/suicide incidents involving returning soldiers this summer alone, so the US military has promised to screen and counsel more thoroughly. However, veterans are now reporting that mental health screening and support is shaky at best. Overwhelmed by feelings of sudden rage, the inability to sleep or eat, withdrawal from society, and haunting visions, our returning troops are sometimes denied the support they seek or told to "suck it up" in the get tough military environment. If you or anyone you know in the military is possibly suffering from PTSD, please call Military One Source, a 24 hour hotline set up to assist with this issue. From US:800-342-9647, or International toll free: 800-3429-6477 or International collect: 484-530-5947

BIRDS & BEES: Military gets tough on tricks: Overseas troops may face court-martial for visiting prostitutes.

HOLLYWOOD: Like a virgin? Christina Aguilera to host MTV special on importance of sexual abstinence.

JOCKS: Band-aide: Lance Armstrong Foundation has now sold 12 million yellow "Live Strong" wristbands.

TECHNOLOGY: Long may you run: 40 watt light bulb in Fort Worth has burned for 96 straight years.

TUNES: He hangs tight: Darkness singer Justin Hawkins says he wears his trousers commando style.

WEB SURF: Word crazy: Do you know how to get 311 points out of one turn at the Scrabble board?

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