News-Record.com

For those who have not served in the military, it is difficult to fully grasp the far-reaching, long-lasting and life-altering impact of war on those who have served.

Veterans returning from wartime service face overwhelming mental stress when trying to regain their lives and their relationships.

According to a 2002 N.C. State Center for Health Statistics report, about 30 percent of the adult males in North Carolina are veterans. In 2005, 350,000 - 15 percent - of active duty American military personnel were women.

Imagine what it would be like to be a soldier returning from Iraq or Afghanistan.

At first, there might be a good bit of fanfare, with lots of attention from family members and friends. But once the initial excitement subsides, veterans and their families often face a "let down" period that is part of the natural transition in adapting to a different lifestyle.

During this rebuilding process, the veteran will face many challenges of re-entry into domestic life. The pace of life is likely to be much slower and less regimented. Reconnecting to spouse and children can take time and patience.

Many individuals may choose to remain in the military throughout their careers, but reservists and National Guard soldiers may be returning to their pre-deployment jobs. Changes are bound to have taken place during the veteran's absence from the workplace.

Combat veterans often face added stress brought on from traumatic experiences. Flashbacks, frequent nightmares, sleeplessness, bouts of fear and heightened anxiety can be debilitating.

Some individuals may need professional help if they exhibit these signs:

• periods of depression lasting longer than two weeks;

• jumpiness or feeling afraid for no apparent reason;

• the sense of reliving or recalling traumatic events;

• frequent use of alcohol or other drugs;

• bouts of anger;

• domestic violence or abuse.

These things can block a veteran's ability to negotiate a successful return to life without war.

Penny Casto is public information specialist with the Guilford Center. Contact her at pcasto@ GuilfordCenter.com