The Canadian Press
Copyright 2008 The Canadian Press
HOLYOKE, Mass. — For many returning soldiers, lifesaving instincts learned in war zones can complicate life at home: constant vigilance, agitation in confined places, bolting from loud noises and other behaviours that police might misinterpret.
Concerned that some may wind up in the criminal justice system instead of counselling, some police and other emergency responders are learning how to recognize and cope with the unique behaviours of troubled combat veterans.
Soldier On, a western Massachusetts service organization known until recently as United Veterans of America, joined other veterans’ advocates, mental-health experts and prosecutors to launch training for police, dispatchers and other emergency workers.
Full Story: Recently returned combat veterans at risk of suicide, extreme behavior