This week we have been discussing the strong connection between disabled veterans and domestic violence – especially among those who suffer from service-related traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and/or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). How can we prevent these incidents of domestic violence, keeping veterans and their families safe and healthy?
Prevention
- Awareness. Far too many soldiers return from the war in Iraq and Afghanistan unaware of what exactly PTSD is or how it could affect their personal and professional lives. At the same time, families can welcome home their loved ones without being aware of the connection between service-related injuries and domestic abuse.
- Eliminating the stigma. One huge issue with domestic abuse perpetrated by veterans is that there is a stigma attached to PTSD and a stigma attached to domestic violence. Preventing domestic violence on a large scale will be impossible until these stigmas are stamped out.
- Keeping families safe. Even if there is a mental health or physical health issue related to the domestic abuse taking place, it is no excuse for the abuse to continue. The family members involved in the abuse should immediately be removed from the situation.
- Treatment. Ideally, veterans with aggression and behavioral problems related to PTSD and TBI would be treated for their issues upon their return from overseas. At the same time, even veterans who have been charged with domestic violence should have the opportunity for treatment.
Have you been affected by domestic violence – either as a veteran or as a veterans’ family member – and need legal assistance? Call Washington family law attorney Molly B. Kenny today for representation at (425) 460-0550.
