In a bid to tackle PTSD (posttraumatic stress disorder) a mental health problem that some military personnel develop after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening event, like combat, a natural disaster, among the Nigerian Army personnel the Army Headquarters Department of Transformation and Innovation (DATI) has organised a one day awareness lecture for officers and soldiers of 2 Division.
This is in its drive to sensitise troops of the Nigerian Army on the dangers of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
The Guest Lecturer, Dr Ehiz Odigie- a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist and Public Health Communication Consultant during the awareness lecture noted that PTSD can affect anybody in the society either physically, mentally or emotionally and that it does not affect only the victim but everybody around them.
Dr Odigie pointed out that the symptoms can start to manifest in days, weeks or months after the exposure of victim to trauma which may include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiousness, fast breathing, feeling lonely, lower energy levels amongst others.
She said the impact of PTSD in the military includes but not limited to disciplinary and behavioural issues, poor decision making, reduced morals, increased stress levels, possible outburst and absence without leave (AWOL).
The Behavioural Therapist advised that on notice of PTSD, there is need for calm, consistent debriefing system for combat returning personnel, ensuring duty replacement, support training and peer support initiatives, granting of leave and passes as at when due to all personnel and keeping of communication lines open.
She opined that to achieve the goals, there should be no more silence, but rather a genuine commitment by all stakeholders as key to its success.
In his remarks at the event the representative of the General Officer Commanding 2 Division Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Mohammed Wabili cautioned troops on excessive spending, involvement in drugs and alcohol when in distress and self medication.
He advocated for continious search for advice and consultation. He commended the Department of Army Transformation and Innovation for the initiative and advised the participants to endeavour to sensitise other personnel on the importance of the programme.
The one day awareness lecture was attended by Officers and soldiers drawn from units and formations in 2 Division Area of Responsibility.
- Brig Gen SK Usman (Rtd)
