ReMINDers

OEF and OIF veterans are eligible for free VA health care for their combat injuries up to 5 years after separation from duty. (VA)

Nearly 20 percent of U.S. service members returning from combat will report symptoms of PTSD or major depression. (RAND)

Nearly 90% of today's seriously wounded U.S. military service members are surviving. (VA)

Over 320,000 U.S. service members have sustained a TBI during deployment to Iraq or Afghanistan. (RAND)

More than 1.9 million U.S. service members have deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan since October, 2001. (DoD)

Costs resulting from PTSD and major depression for troops deployed since 2001 are expected to range from $4-$6 billion. (RAND)

As public concern over these injuries grows, policy changes and funding shifts are already occurring. (RAND)

Of those reporting a probable TBI, 57% have not been evaluated by a physician for brain injury. (RAND)

Processing times for veteran disability benefit claims has decreased from 230 days in 2001 to an estimated 145 days in 2009. (whitehouse.gov)

When combat stress exceeds the capacity of an individual to cope, literal injuries to the brain and mind can result. (RAND)

Symptoms and repercussions of combat stress include depression, anxiety, misuse of alcohol and drugs, strains in family functioning, separation and divorce. (RAND)

Nearly 5.3 million veterans will receive care at the Department of Veterans Affairs in 2009. (whitehouse.gov)

Medical science provides a better understanding than ever before of how to care for a new generation of service members suffering the psychological effects of warfare. (RAND)

Support our troops is no longer a slogan. It's an action.