War is destructive in every way possible. It destroys soldiers
physically and emotionally. The New York Times recently gave a study which
concluded that one in five service members in Iraq suffers from post traumatic
stress disorder; but only half of those affected receive professional help.
This survey accurately displays the damage that can come from a war. With 1.6 million service members deployed in
2007, almost everyone has felt the influence of war. The psychological and/or
physical injuries come home with the soldiers and are brought onto their
families. Of the 1.6 million, 25% of
those soldiers are at home dealing with the symptoms of the stress disorder.
While Billy Pilgrim did not serve Iraq, the psychological effects
are still felt by soldiers of World War II. Billy Pilgrims’s delusions and
tainted view of society can be a result from his time spent serving in the war.
The devastation of the bombing at Dresden forever stuck with Billy and potentially
caused his post traumatic stress disorder. At one point, he admits himself to a
veteran’s hospital, but the shock treatment was inadequate in helping Billy
recover from the mental injuries he had gotten from his experience in the war. He began to have hallucinations of the
Tralfamadorians and his life was never the same after the life-altering
experience in Dresden during World War II.
Due to human nature, war is inevitable. There is violent
side in humans that make them incapable of just “talking it out.” However, this
is not excuse to let the mental health of our soldiers fall short on the
government’s list of priorities. Personally, the mental and physical health of
the men and women serving should take precedence of “winning” the war. Growing up in a family with a slight military
background, I have a great appreciation for all of those who choose to serve. They
are not only choosing to put their life in danger during the deployment, but it
could potentially alter their whole entire mindset. These men and women deserve
an improved treatment for those whose suffer from PTSD. War can end lives
and/or tear families apart, but it can also provide experiences that regular
civilians will never be able to understand.
Dating back to ancient civilizations, war has only been destructive to
the mind, body, and soul.
Very good Abby!!
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