First Lady Generates Buzz Against PTSD

First Lady Michelle Obama teamed up with Dr. Jill Biden's Joining Forces initiative, American Association of Colleges, and the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine on January 11.

In an attempt to combat posttraumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury, the First Lady hopes to generate more doctors, medical facilities and schools.  With the war now over, in Iraq many veterans will be returning home, some with potentially debilitating disorders to fight.

According to Medscape.com, around 12 -20 percent of the returning soldiers tested positive for posttraumatic stress disorder.  Of the 33,000 wounded, around 68% suffered blast related injuries, according to IAVA.org.

"Because of our integrated missions in education, clinical care, and research, America's medical schools are uniquely positioned to take a leadership role in this important effort," said Darrell G. Kirch, president of the American Association of Colleges. 

Symptoms associated with posttraumatic stress disorder are:  increased anxiety, suppressing memories of the trauma, nightmares, flashbacks, distress, intense physical reactions to reminders of the event and loss of interest in activities. Andrei Florentino, 25, diagnostic medical imaging major, said, " I believe the increase of medical schools will be good, if there are enough people able to pay for the tuition, considering the recent economic status."

"This will also provide more jobs for teachers and doctors alike, so in turn, it's also good for the economy. It's a good idea because having more people that excel in a field where it heals people of their problems will create a stable and more peaceful living environment for those afflicted by these problems."

Megan Keebler, coordinator of the writing and reading success center at LBCC, said, "I think it's our duty and our government's duty to help people who fought for the defense of our freedom."

David Williamson, Marine Corps veteran and fire science major, 31, said, "It can't hurt it's a good thing. Hopefully it'll bring better services to veterans." Williamson believes that the current services that are available to veterans at VA hospitals could use some work.