Fed: 30 years on Vietnam still stalks veterans
It's been 30 years since the last Australian troops left Vietnam, but some veteransstill face a daily battle with anxiety and flashbacks.
Speaking on Vietnam Veterans Day, Melbourne psychiatrist MAL HOPWOOD says the treatmentof veterans struggling to cope with their experiences now emphasises rehabilitation ratherthan medication.
Two new programs have been developed at the Austin Health's Veterans Psychiatry Unitin Melbourne to help veterans cope with stress, anger management and improve their relationshipand social skills.
Dr HOPWOOD says as veterans approach their mid-to-late 50s, the problems are also becomingmore pronounced.
He says 30 years on the veterans are unlikely to make a full recovery.
Dr HOPWOOD says the veterans are beginning to accumulate the first of the problemsof ageing and that makes dealing with their mental problems more difficult for them.
The Austin's psychiatry unit treats more than 300 returned soldiers from the VietnamWar, subsequent conflicts and peace-keeping missions.
AAP RTV svm/gfr/rsm/rp
KEYWORD: VETS VIC (MELBOURNE)
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