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Virtual experience might help soldiers who suffer from PTSD
By Staff Writer
Approximately 7.7 million Americans age 18 and older suffer from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), according to the National Institute of Mental Health. The Defense Department recently unveiled a video game they hope will have a positive impact on soldiers returning home from war, The News Tribune reported.
The T2 Virtual PTSD Experience was developed by the three-year-old Pentagon program known as the National Center for Telehealth and Technology. The program's purpose is to let users and their loved ones learn about PTSD in an anonymous setting, according to the news source. It is free to download and can be accessed through the virtual reality platform known as Second Life.
Center officials believe that a number of soldiers in need of cognitive therapy to treat their psychological trauma may not seek help. Statistics reported by the news source reveal that 51 percent of officers and enlisted soldiers believe that pursuing behavioral health services might negatively impact their careers.
Individuals who use the virtual PTSD experience are asked to create an avatar to represent themselves, but are allowed to disclose as much or as little information as they would like. In addition, the program provides information on how users can receive treatment.
