The New Orleans attack and the Las Vegas explosion are prompting new concerns about the need for mental health support for active members of the military and veterans.
The Erie VA treats about 500 veterans every year for behavioral health issues.
Treatment is available for the full range of conditions from PTSD and depression to serious illnesses like schizophrenia.
The assistant chief of behavioral health at the VA said veterans are more likely to suffer from PTSD because of the trauma they experienced or witnessed.
Left untreated, PTSD can manifest itself with symptoms ranging from anxiety and not wanting to go out to being short-tempered and not getting along with others.
While most veterans don’t have a propensity for violence, there is typically an adjustment period when integrating into society, and support is available.
“You go from having your buddies around you 24/7 and a whole platoon of support to maybe living on your own or maybe not having any support. So it is a very difficult transition for people getting out of the military to come into civilian life and try to navigate everything that’s so much different from what they had experienced,” said Jeff Rose, Asst. Chief of Behavioral Health, Erie VA.