Summary

Reynaldo Salazar, a veteran of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, spoke with Ryan Maejima Gonzalez, a student journalist from Canyon High School in Santa Clarita, California, about the first time he experienced PTSD, how he sought help and how a person can help a veteran in their life who may be affected by post-traumatic stress disorder. This story was produced by Ryan Maejima Gonzalez at Canyon High School in Santa Clarita, California with support from SRL Connected Educator Ryanne Meschkat. Key terms: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) : A mental health condition brought on by trauma. PTSD can result in intrusive thoughts such as involuntary memories and nightmares, as well as alterations of mood, thinking and behavior. Improvised Explosive Device (IED): A simple explosive device commonly deployed against U.S. troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, often hidden in roads and other travel corridors.

Five Facts

• Who is the focus of this piece and why?


• What are some of the effects of PTSD described by Reynaldo Salazar?


• What is some of the advice Salazar gives for family of veterans who are experiencing PTSD?


• Why does Salazar think it's important to talk to people with PTSD about the struggle they are going through?


• How did Salazar end up seeking help?

Focus Questions

Salazar suggests talking to veterans with PTSD and reminding them, "You're here, you don't have to worry anymore." Why do you think he suggests this, and why do you think this conversation might be valuable? What do you think are some other ways to help veterans with PTSD? What do you think are some topics or questions to avoid for veterans with PTSD? Media literacy: Who else might you want to hear from to understand what to do to help those suffering from PTSD?

For More

Veterans are not the only ones deeply affected by the trauma of their service. You can watch the video below for stories of how children of military personnel are impacted by their parents' roles. A lesson based on the video can be found here . You can find a full lesson plan with activities for Veterans Day and beyond here .