posted on September 27, 2000 07:32:40 AM new
?? Cariad,
An abbreviated list of sources in which tons of information is available. Obviously, my cut and paste ability is temporarily restored. This modem works until it gets hot, then it dies, and I'm left floundering with free dial up and other unfamiliar things. But for now,
Thorazine, long term:
Extrapyramidal reactions, including pseudoparkinsonism (with motor retardation, rigidity, mask like facies, pill rolling and other tremors, drooling, shuffling gait,
etc.); dystonic reactions (including periroral spasms, trismus, tics, torticollis, oculogyric crises, protrusion of the tongue, difficulty swallowing, carpopedal spasm,
opisthotonos of the back muscles); and akathisia.In addition, slowing of the EEG rhythm, disturbed body temperature and lowering of the convulsive threshold
have occurred. Dizziness has been reported.
Tardive dyskinesia may appear in some patients on long term antipsychotic therapy or may appear after drug therapy has been discontinued. The risk appears to
be greater in elderly patients on high-dose therapy, especially females. The symptoms are persistent and in some patients appear to be irreversible. The
syndrome is characterized by rhythmical involuntarymovements of the tongue, face, mouth or jaw (e.g. protrusion of the tongue, puffing of the cheeks, puckering
of the mouth and chewing movements). Sometimes these may be accompanied by involuntary movements of the extremities.
There is no known effective treatment for tardive dyskinesia; antiparkinsonian agents usually do not alleviate the symptoms of this syndrome. All antipsychotic
agents should be discontinued if these symptoms appear.
What is PTSD?
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a serious psychological reaction that develops in some people following experience of overwhelmingly frightening or traumatic events.
It can result from many types of trauma, especially those which threaten life. Such events include, but are not limited to, combat, assault, sexual assault, natural
disaster, accidents and torture.
In one form or another, it has been known since ancient times and descriptions of PTSD-like reactions can be found in early Greek and Roman writings. More
recently, it has been called other names, such as shell shock, battle fatigue, accident neurosis and rape trauma syndrome. PTSD can affect people of any age,
culture or gender.
Most people who experience trauma will have some kind of psychological reaction - this is part of a normal human reaction to overwhelming experiences.
Feelings of fear, sadness, guilt, and anger are common. However, most survivors recover in time and only a small proportion will go on to develop the serious,
long-term problems that are characteristic of PTSD.
The Symptoms of PTSD
PTSD comprises three main groups of problems; they can be categorised under the headings of intrusive, avoidant, and arousal symptoms.
Intrusive Symptoms
Memories and images of the traumatic events may "intrude" into the lives of individuals with PTSD. This can happen in vivid daytime memories and dreams. For
people with PTSD, it may seem as though the present has become dominated by the past.
These intrusive memories occur suddenly and without obvious cause. They are often accompanied by intense emotions, such as grief, guilt, fear, or anger.
Sometimes they can be so vivid that the individual believes the trauma is re-occurring.
Avoidance Symptoms
Traumatic memories are very unpleasant. Thus, traumatised individuals may avoid situations, people, or events which remind them of the event. In extreme cases,
the person may become "numb", withdrawing into themselves in an attempt to shut out the painful memories and feelings.
Individuals with PTSD often feel incapable of responding appropriately to others. They may report being unable to feel emotions, even toward those to whom
they are closest.
This emotional avoidance and numbing inevitably affects relationships. It may cause the individual to withdraw from family or friends, and makes it difficult for
them to engage in a normal life. PTSD can result in severe restriction of emotional contact. Often family members may be rebuffed by a PTSD sufferer who is
unable to show appropriate affection and emotion.
Arousal Symptoms
Severe trauma can cause individuals to feel at risk of further traumatisation. This sense of vulnerability can leave them feeling "jumpy" and constantly on guard.
People with PTSD often report exaggerated startle reactions and extreme watchfulness. Sleep may become difficult and disturbed. They may feel irritable and
angry with themselves, others around them, and the world in general.
Individuals with PTSD often report concentration and memory problems. This, along with the other symptoms associated with PTSD, may cause sufferers to
develop problems at work and impair relationships with family and friends.
Associated Problems
People with PTSD often experience feelings of panic or extreme fear, which may resemble those felt during the trauma.
Depression is often an additional problem for people with PTSD. Lowered mood can occur from living with the symptoms of PTSD or the nature of the trauma
itself.
It is not uncommon for PTSD sufferers to engage in potentially harmful habits and behaviours to cope with their experiences. Thus, PTSD sufferers may abuse
alcohol or other drugs in an attempt to blunt memory and cope with the unpleasant feelings.
Course of the Disorder
Some symptoms of PTSD can be seen as part of a normal human response to an overwhelming experience. In time, these symptoms disappear in the majority of
people. In a proportion of cases, however, they are more severe and may warrant a full diagnosis of PTSD. Without treatment in such cases, the symptoms of
PTSD may persist for many years. It is not uncommon for symptoms to vary in their intensity over time. In rare cases, they may not appear for some months, or
even years, after the trauma.
Where symptoms are severe, or last for a long time, the person should be seen by an experienced mental health clinician.
Untreated, PTSD can become a chronic, disabling disorder. Without treatment, individuals run the risk of symptoms becoming more chronic in nature, resulting
in damage to work performance and relationships. I hope that it's not lost on cariad that given there was not even a diagnosable condition until 1980, Vietnam veterans are of necessity long time sufferers
Some sources for cariad: (who claims that they don't exist) (I've included resources for family members of PTSD victims in general, for use by interested persons not necessarily Vietnam veteran related, as well as one dealing with the same set of symptomolgies in police officers for mikey.
Note that a few of these are books available for purchase in Amazon)
http://www.ncptsd.unimelb.edu.au/resources/brochures/brochure1.html
http://www.ncptsd.org/facts/index.html
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1886968004/veritasprogrammi/103-1836234-2957434
Wounds of War: The Psychological Aftermath of Combat in Vietnam. Hendin, H. and A. P. Haas. Basic Books, 1984
PTSD Resarch Quarterly. Published by the National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, White River Junction, VT 05009
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0962916463/veritasprogrammi/103-1836234-2957434
Recovering from the War: A Woman's Guide to Helping Your Vietnam Vet, Your Family, and Yourself. Mason, Patience. Penguin Books, 1990.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders: A Handbook for Clinicians. Williams, Tom, editor. Disabled American Veterans, 1987.
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0306428733/veritasprogrmami/103-1836234-2957434
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0881339474/veritasprogrammi/103-1836234-2957434
American Daughter Gone to War: On the Front Lines with an Army Nurse in Vietnam. Smith, Winnie. William Morrow, 1992.
http://www.trauma-pages.com/index.phtml
http://www.mentalhealth.com/dis/p20-an06.html
posted on September 27, 2000 02:18:37 PM new
???KRS
Thorazine was one of the major psychotropics/anti-psychotics used to treat the seriously and persistently mentally ill, at that time it was the best we had.. Once the devastating side effects including Tardive Dyskensia were identified, anti-parkinson drugs were utilized to prevent them.
Newer, more effective medications, with fewer side effects(supposedly), were developed and Thorazine is not widely used today, although some patients are noted to respond to it more effectively. All powerful drugs have side effects and if we were to read the PDR carefully we would be afraid to take most medications. Many of the newer drugs require blood levels to be drawn weekly to prevent serious life threatening conditions.
PTSD. Where did I ever question the existence or validity of PTSD? I DO believe that it is ,in fact, what most Vietnam vets who had significant problems suffered; some of whom STILL suffer, but lead useful productive lives anyway.(Would this not apply to you?) I don't believe the exaggerated claims, and unknown, uncited, but often quoted, statistics of high percentages of Vietnam vets who are homeless, begging on the streets, suicidal,explosive tragedies waiting to happen.
posted on September 27, 2000 06:06:35 PM new
umm, right here:
"I have done that KRS, for years, and researched any relevant studies. And it is NOT there, and you obviously can't find it or you would be able to CITE something, anything! It would not take a great deal of work to find".
But we're getting closer. You would need to realize that because of the nature of the Vietnam War it is probable that all personnel involved there suffer effects to some degree. What those effects manifest to be does vary. Yes, many vets seem to live adjusted lives, John Kerry comes to mind, but only they and those close to them know the extent of their influence by the war. I knew a very successful ex-Marine who'd lost his right leg in Vietnam. I knew him at work, and for a while I was a direct report to him. Excellent in every aspect of his career. Yet it came out that he'd been arrested on numerous occasions drunk and engaging in fights in bars. He was also repeatedly arrested for domestic disturbances including spousal abuse. Was he homeless? Hardly. Was he a danger to himself and society? Very much so. He shot both his wife and himself dead one night. Neighbors reported having heard him shouting incoherent phrases that they thought sounded oriental. He had denied that he suffered from the war, except for his leg, and he took a great deal of pride in his service.
So what are the true statistics that you DO believe? You haven't posted anything except what appears to be a commissioned work on the behalf of a political candidate who wishes to attack the current administration of funds for the aid of our veteran populace. In doing so you've admitted that the VA is doing a job in keeping fraudulant claims away by acknowledging that it is a tough process.
posted on September 27, 2000 06:25:32 PM new
Not sure if this is the right place to post this, but, over the weekend a small little boy, age 11, was killed and mutilated beyond my words here in Pittsburgh. The suspected killer was picked up today--homeless--49.
A Vet? Time will tell. KRS--it's time to beef up the councilling---please and this is earnest---let me know if I can help.
Email me at [email protected] if you have some contact here in the Pittsburgh area. Men are homeless here and we sorta walk by them and spit--get a job.
This past weekend has hit home and hard--please if I can do anything to help--email me the names and phone numbers--I will find the time and energy to help. I mean it--
posted on September 27, 2000 06:57:16 PM new
KRS--do not ignore me in my plea. You and I have never agreed on one solid point ever. But--this time--a small child is dead and mutilated---why? I have offered my limited help to your limited resources---this is volunteer---right? Geesh---do I hear the ramifications of politics and government intervention? This is just too special!
posted on September 27, 2000 07:11:47 PM new
Oh I get it--on another thread you were so pissed off at my defending of Jane Fonda--you stated you would never ever ackknowledge another post of mine. Grow Up--Get Real!!! This is reality fella--right now--today- Not 30 years ago. If you don't respond and help---live with the demons and the past---~Jean
posted on September 27, 2000 07:15:41 PM new
Look in your government section of the phone book and find under Veteran's Administration the listing for the nearest Vet Center. Their services are free to veteran's and they have access to any needed avenue of assitance available including mental health care, medical care , placement, and job training and referral.
The biggest problem is often in getting the vet to go there, even once made aware of the availablity.
posted on September 27, 2000 07:27:00 PM new
KRS--a sweet lovable ass---I am not ignoring you---have you read anything I have written?
Such a cop-out to say I am ignored---what a wooosh---you are not what you claim----I am getting really pissed at this point---KRS--just a marshmellow---will be on the phone tomarrow and talk to someone that really counts. Such posturing---rediculous.
posted on September 27, 2000 07:37:25 PM new
jeanyu, for one thing you do not even know that this homeless person was a vet. Were I a Vietnam Vet, I would be slow to answer you too. I would in fact be hard pressed to control a response to you since you are assuming because it is a homeless man of a certain age he is a Vietnam Vet..
Beyond that tho, how can you expect a poster here to solve problems in another city across the country?
posted on September 27, 2000 07:42:47 PM new
Kel---KRS thanks you for your response so that this poster does not sally his so called reputation. What a hoot!! The inner circle circles and maintains their own. HA!
posted on September 27, 2000 07:46:03 PM new
Krs,
I asked you to cite your statistics regarding a high percentage of homelessness; that overwhelming percentages of Viet vets are mentally ill. Those are the statistics you have not given.
There is No significantly greater incidence of mental disorders, or criminals,or whatever, among the Vietnam Vet population,as to the general population. Why do you insist that there is?
See the very fact that Jean Yu immediately assumed murder=Vietnam Vet makes me ill.
Why do you keep trying to assign a political conspiracy theory to a book that was written, that uses basic information and documented facts?
cariad
posted on September 27, 2000 07:57:45 PM new
Kitsch1 writes "jeanyu, for one thing you do not even know that this homeless person was a vet. Were I a Vietnam Vet, I would be slow to answer you too. I would in fact be hard pressed to control a response to you since you are assuming because it is a homeless man of a certain age he is a Vietnam Vet.. "
Now do you understand why I get so upset with this crap.?? Why sweeping generalizations, or exaggerations perpetuate this kind of thinking?
posted on September 27, 2000 07:59:14 PM new
Time will tell.
edited to add--Kel your poetry sucks--please take that in the way it was intended. Poetry and Mulilation of a 10 year old just don't meld.
[ edited by jeanyu on Sep 27, 2000 08:03 PM ]
posted on September 27, 2000 08:00:23 PM new
Jeanyu,
I did not say that you were ignored. I asked you not to address me again, which you said you would not do.
cariad,
If you'd bother to go and reference each of the various resources that I've posted for you, you will find all that you ask me for. You expend a great deal of effort focussed upon me, yet cannot read what I've given you? I'd particularly recommend the volume cited by Tom Wilson. When you are finished, come back, and I'll give you some more if you cannot follow the lead contained within those by yourself.
As to the political ramifications implicit in the publication of a book which purports to expose the levels of misuse and waste of taxpayer funds through fraudulent veteran related claims during the incumbant democratic presidency by a long time social and business associate in Texas of the opposing candidate, I would think that the worth of any such data as you describe could reasonably be questioned.
posted on September 27, 2000 08:02:12 PM new
cariad, Jeanyu has spelled it out better than you ever could.
Yes, I DO understand. I think you and KRS are on the same side here tho, it is just that he sems to work towards getting benefits for those lost in the shuffle of papers and he sees a different view than you. http://members.ebay.com/aboutme/[email protected]/
posted on September 27, 2000 08:08:27 PM new
cariad that wasn't to say that your words are not a compelling argument, rather, it was to say that seeing the bias in the written word had more impact on this person. http://members.ebay.com/aboutme/[email protected]/
posted on September 27, 2000 08:10:07 PM new
KRS--it;s getting a bit lame now--don;t you just want to spout off and say what you feel?
But then again--it would be a refreshing post that you said---I'm ignoring this thread. Only for the fact that we have a small little guy dead and you have no comment. What a wooosh
posted on September 27, 2000 08:10:36 PM new
cariad,
I've already said in a post to mikey that I agree one hundred percent in my objection to the characterization of vets as has been expressed here just now. Every vet hates that. Every time you have a media report of a violent crime all of us wait for the Vietnam Vet tie-in. It inevitably comes. I seeth. Some vets just shrug, as if to say "Sure, as usual, it's our fault".
I'm as sick of that as anyone is.
What I cannot accept is the other shoe which says "well, that's bull, there is no problem in Vietnam vets, it's all made up by the media."
Your use of the commission reporton the homeless sort of surprised me as it is worded as though to say "well, there could be a problem, but it's because they're drug addicts, and because the recruitment standards had been lowered to allow into the services people who would normally not be there" What's that? Elitism, or racism, or what?
posted on September 27, 2000 08:15:32 PM new
Jeanyu, a child was murdered and you brought it here in a thread about vietnam vets, ASSUMING that this murderer was a vet. To me THAT is SOOOOOOOOOOOOO WRONG!!!!!!!!!
I put THAT feeling of wrongness into words. I will not and can not express the feelings I have about children being raped or hurt or murdered here.
I don't even allow me to watch the news anymore, it hurts me too deeply.
posted on September 27, 2000 08:26:01 PM new
KRS--you a frickin wheeney and I knew it from day one. Phoney--phoney---big fricking phoney!!!! (Um----I am currently ignoring posts--geesh--what a fricking phoney!)
If you ever want to respond to me on an adult level about what has happened here in PA--my email is still open--catch it on the prior post---just not going to hold my breath---you seem to be all posture and no substance.
posted on September 27, 2000 08:29:27 PM new
Bet you're holding your breath to find that the man served a week or a year in
Nam tho jeanyu, just so's you can say you were right.
posted on September 27, 2000 08:35:17 PM new
Jeanyu, a suggestion:
Why not take the grief, horror and anger you're experiencing about the murdered ten-year-old and put it to more constructive use? Perhaps there's already a group of citizens in your town who are helping his distraught family (with fund-drives, baked goods, searches for the culprit, etc.). Perhaps there's something worthwhile you could undertake to alleviate homelessness in your area.
Using such a tragedy to bait a chatboard adversary is the most despicable means I've ever seen anyone utilize to draw attention to themself; certainly you don't mean to come off as such an insensitive clot...
posted on September 27, 2000 08:38:21 PM new
You cut that crap out right now, jeanyu, or I'm taking back my cows. Lay off, you are out of line.
I am learning more about the War than I have in years by reading these posts. They're painful to read and is probably harder yet to write, but for those who keep slogging on this topic, it's appreciated. Hope you can stay the course, dodge the bullets and the BS, and keep talking on the issues.
