Curiously Awesome

After two tours in Iraq, a marine came back home to the states and tried to resume his life with his wife. He could not shake an overwhelming feeling of dispair, however. Finally, suffering a mental breakdown as a result of PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) he committed suicide on Feb 19.

His family is understandably in shock.

As soldiers return home from serving, many have overwhelming feelings of depression and anxiety. Many seek help from the Veterans Health Administration, but become frustrated with the endless red tape and long waits for counseling and care.

The family of the recently deceased marine believes the VA failed their son because of insufficient services. The marine was unhappy with the care he received at the VA and felt it was impersonal. He also felt he couldn’t connect with the Vietnam veterans who were receiving help at the hospital.

With PTSD becoming more commonplace as soldiers return from tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, the VA needs to take the necessary steps to improve its mental health care.