Post-Traumatic Stress DisorderOur soldiers not only risked life and limb for our country while serving in the Vietnam War, but they continue to suffer immensely. Americans, Vietnamese troops and civilians suffered great casualties. Witnessing firsthand the pain and death of strangers and allies is not something you are likely to forget. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was one of the many repercussions of witnessing these gruesome events (Mental Health America). Veterans, their families and the government have joined the fight in an effort to address the harmful effects of PTSD. Post-traumatic stress disorder is a psychiatric disorder that can develop after a person has been a victim of or witnesses a traumatic event (What is PTSD). Men and women who served in the Vietnam War were vulnerable to many acts of violence and death, such as guerrilla warfare. After being discharged from the Armed Forces, they may have flashbacks when a trigger brings back a memory or they may even suffer from nightmares or insomnia due to specific experiences (Riley, Julie). Not being able to sleep can have deteriorating effects on the body that can make adapting to life after war very difficult. The move of the Armed Forces into domestic life can represent something of a culture shock. However, anyone can develop PTSD. A person who has been a victim of abuse, an unexpected death/accident, or even a survivor of a natural disaster is at risk of being diagnosed with this disorder (Mental Health America). They may experience some symptoms of; depression, irritability, insomnia, flashbacks, may complain of headache or stomach pain and may become withdrawn (Riley, Julie). These directions... middle of the paper... ewYork: Columbia University Press, 1975. Print."Mental Health America." What is post-traumatic stress disorder. Pikes Peak SEO, January 1, 2013. Web. April 28, 2014..McBride, Bill. “VIETNAM VETERANS HOME PAGE.” Vietnam veterans. Np, January 1, 2012.Web. April 28, 2014. “PTSD: National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Home.” National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. VA Health Care, January 1, 2013. Network. April 28, 2014. "Real Warriors." Real warriors, real battle, real strength. Np, January 1, 2013. Web. April 28, 2014. .Riley, Julie. "EBSCOhost Online Search Database | EBSCO." PTSD condition in brief. NP, Jan. 1, 2013. Web. Apr. 28, 2014. “U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.” Veterans Services. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Jan. 1, 2014. Web. Apr. 28. 2014. .