With the recent observation of Veteran’s Day, the national spotlight was focused on the war heroes of America, the people who sacrificed so much so that we could be the country we are today. However, what isn’t mentioned in the media so much is how many people suffer after they serve.

According to Mayo Clinic, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by a terrifying event – either experiencing or witnessing it. The symptoms may include disturbing flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety, as well as uncontrollable thoughts about the event.  Retired soldiers who have PTSD may have a hard time doing everyday things, even going to the mall.

James Brereton visited Shore Regional and shared some of his experiences of living with the disorder.  Mr. Brereton served 3 tours in Iraq and 2 in Afghanistan. On April 13, 2006, he was blown out of a vehicle and was the only survivor. When he returned home, his PTSD resurfaced and got to the point where he literally wouldn’t leave the comfort of his house. Realizing he needed help, he reached out to a friend who worked with service dogs. “The first second I laid eyes on this dog, I was like, ‘Yep, that’s it. Life is good,’” said Brereton. The first day he received his service dog and best friend, Bernie, he went to the mall and grabbed a cup of coffee calmly and happily.

Others had different experiences. Lawrence Seymour worked in an Iraqi prison camp, which was bombed several times. He also lost his brother in combat, and has had a difficult time dealing with his past experiences since he’s been home to Oceanport, New Jersey.

Seymour says he’s leaning on his family and a support group while struggling with PTSD. He also is trying to get a service dog like Bernie, but it’s taking him some time. “I feel like I need something with me. I have no security,” he explains.

The sad truth, according to Seymour, is that we lose 22 veterans a day to suicide, most often because of PTSD. Thankfully, many like Seymour and Brereton are getting help, walking away from their experiences with hope for a better future.