About PTSD - Terrible story

Film brings 'hidden wounds' of Iraq war into public view
Highlights stories of three veterans

By Emily Shartin, Globe Staff | March 11, 2006

CAMBRIDGE -- The mother of a Belchertown man who committed suicide after returning home from the Iraq war hopes that families will receive more help in recognizing and dealing with the dangers of post-traumatic stress disorder.

Joyce Lucey, whose son Jeffrey served in the Marine Reserve, said her family had few places to turn after Jeffrey began drinking heavily and having panic attacks following his return in 2003. He was admitted to a VA hospital and soon released. The family said it later tried unsuccessfully to get him readmitted.
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Several veterans, including Senator John F. Kerry of Massachusetts and former senator Max Cleland of Georgia, both of whom served in the Vietnam War, discussed the difficulties of returning home at yesterday's event. The documentary was produced by the New England Cable News network.

Kerry said he plans to seek more money to assist veterans dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder. Responding to an audience member who began shouting, ''Stop this war, John," before he was removed from the room, Kerry said he understands the emotion that the prolonged military action has aroused.
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Tim Beebe, regional manager for Vet Centers, said veterans need to begin seeking support sooner. Many won't because they see asking for help as a weakness.
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Emily Shartin can be reached at eshartin@globe.com.
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