Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: DOD Needs to Identify the Factors Its Providers Use to Make Mental Health Evaluation Referrals for Service Members
Description:
Service members returning from the military conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq—Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF), respectively—have engaged in intense and prolonged combat, which research has shown to be strongly associated with the risk for developing PTSD. PTSD can occur after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening event and is the most prevalent mental health disorder resulting from combat. Mental health experts state that early identification and treatment of symptoms through education, peer and family support, therapy, or medications may lessen the severity of the condition and improve the overall quality of life for those with PTSD. (GAO)
Type of Resource:
Report
Publication #:
GAO-06-397
Publication Date:
2006
Location:
Washington, D.C.
Phone:
202-512-7101