American Veterans The perpetrators of domestic violence are often vilified – and sometimes with good reason. But the origins of domestic abuse can be complex, and in some cases the person who has engaged in abusive behavior needs treatment as much as those he or she abuses. One strong example of this is veterans who engage in domestic abuse after returning from active duty in the military.

 

The Connection Between Veterans and Domestic Violence

According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, veterans are two to three times more likely to batter their wives and child – but why? Experts say that the stress and trauma of combat and active duty overseas can oftentimes result in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a mental health condition that can be tied with depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, behavioral chances, and substance abuse issues. PTSD can also lead sufferers to lose their jobs or remain unable to work – two issues that can lead to even more stress and frustration.

At the same time, thousands of military personnel are returning home with service-related traumatic brain injuries. These injures can result in behavioral problems, depression, anxiety, sudden aggression, personality changes, and other issues that can lead to domestic abuse.

Treatment and Prevention 

It is important to understand that being a veteran – or suffering from PTSD or a traumatic brain injury – is absolutely no excuse for domestic violence. The best thing that we can do with the information we have about veterans and domestic violence is to prevent these issues before they begin by making certain that veterans receive the medical care they need when they return home from war. The least we can do is make sure that veterans who face domestic violence charges realize that they are facing a service-related medical issue and get help.

Families are encouraged to work together with veterans groups, community groups, local police, and healthcare providers to protect families of veterans and help veterans themselves get healthy after service.

A Bellevue Domestic Violence Attorney Can Help 

Domestic violence is an extremely serious issue, no matter what the cause. However, if your Washington domestic violence case involved a veteran, PTSD, or a traumatic brain injury, you may wish for the assistance of an experienced family law attorney. Call our Bellevue law office today to schedule a private consultation at 425-460-0550.

Molly B. Kenny
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Divorce and Child Custody Attorney Serving Bellevue and Seattle Washington