WASHINGTON  —  Early studies of the emotional ravages of the Iraq war on combat soldiers have spurred some veterans' health advocates to question whether Americans and the U.S. government are truly prepared for the devastating and far-reaching mental health effects of war.  Read the full article here.

According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, the number of young veterans receiving PTSD treatment from VA hospitals and counseling centers has increased 87% since 2005.  Alfonso Batres, chief officer for the department's readjustment services, says he thinks most of the jump in the number of cases is directly related to outreach efforts over the last few years.

"We've really concentrated our efforts on reaching these troops," he said, "and now we're seeing more and more of them coming in to the counseling centers."

To learn more about PTSD, please review the National Center for PTSD Fact Sheet that is provided by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.

Doc advises that the VA has projected that 25,000-27,000 Marines will be rotating home in the next year or so, most of whom may be experiencing marked symptoms of PTSD, correlating highly with extended tours of duty.  Also, the VA recently disclosed they have discovered a $1 Billion shortfall of funds, which makes one speculate on whether our Veterans will get timely care.

If Veterans find themselves waiting for care from the VA, Doc Berry encourages them to contact a CMH (Community Mental Health) center.  It is affordable, and fees are normally on a sliding scale, which means you pay only what you can afford.

"If any Marines want more information about CMH, or have general mental health questions, feel free to contact me yesterday!" says Doc.

Contact Info for Dr. Andrew S. Berry

Location:  Staten Island, NY 
Email:  Andrew@dochog.com
Alternate Email:  andrew_s._berry_alm92@post.harvard.edu