AGENCY TESTIMONY
PTSD prevalence among veterans and impact on families
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159 sec
Commissioner Hendon presents statistics and information on the prevalence of PTSD among veterans and its significant impact on their families, drawing from recent studies and national data.
- More than 60% of New York state veterans have a disability, with about 25% having probable depression or PTSD
- National statistics show approximately 7% of US military veterans experience PTSD at some point in their lives, with higher rates for combat veterans
- The testimony highlights how PTSD affects family relationships, children's behavior, and the overall well-being of veteran households
James Hendon
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Wanna start by panning back and just talking about these things that are brought away.
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We deeply appreciate the council's attention to the needs of families affected by the mental health challenges faced by veterans, including PTSD.
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Living with or caring for a veteran who has PTSD can have significant emotional, psychological, and even physical impacts on family members.
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A recent ran study commissioned by the New York Health Foundation provides important insights.
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More than 60% of New York state veterans has a disability.
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Roughly 1 out of 4 surveyed have more probable depression or PTSD.
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Nearly 15%, 70% have both.
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This study based on responses from 1225 New York State Veterans discharged from military service.
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Between January of 2018 January of 2023, also revealed that almost 60% of those veterans are married or partnered underscoring the extensive reach of PTSD's effects on loved ones.
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On a national level, according to the National Center for PTSD, approximately 6% of Americans are expected to experience PTSD at some point in their lives.
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Comparatively, roughly 7% of US military veterans will experience PTSD at some point in their lives.
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However, this rate, the portion that will experience PTSD at some point in their lives can be significantly higher among veterans with direct combat experience.
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Such as those who served in Vietnam, 10%.
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Does it storm?
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21%.
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And operations are lacking freedom and enduring freedom.
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29%.
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The National Center for PTSD highlights how PTSD can manifest in ways that challenge even the most resilient families.
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Veterans may be easily startled, have disturbing nightmares, or avoid social situations, behaviors that constrain family relationships, and lead to feelings of isolation.
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Children of veterans with PTSD are also at risk of being indirectly impacted.
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Studies suggest that these children may be more prone to behavioral issues, challenges at school and difficulties forming relationships with peers.
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Parents report seeing their children as more anxious, aggressive, and prone to sadness, or hyperactivity than those veterans parents who do not have PTSD.
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Some research also indicates a correlation between PTSD and a parent and an increased risk of domestic violence, though it is essential to note that most veteran households do not experience domestic violence.
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It is crucial for family members to be able to recognize PTSD symptoms and encourage their loved ones to seek help through the VA or mental health provider knowledgeable about military culture.
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Family members and children themselves can benefit from therapy sessions with culturally competent providers to manage to help manage the stress and emotional toll that PTSD may create with a family.
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Key takeaway here.
