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SALT LAKE CITY -- The Iraq war is taking a toll on many soldiers, in terms of stress and on morale. Here in Utah, the emotional toll is more subtle.
More Utah servicemen and women than ever are reporting physical and emotional problems from related to their service in the war. That even goes for veterans who come home and think they're fine at first.
The homecomings are sweet when service members are reunited with family and friends. The experience in the war zone is pushed aside for a moment, but in the long run not everyone can keep the carefree spirit.
For a lot of veterans, the experience of random bombings, snipers and physical injury can affect them in lingering, sometimes hidden ways.
"The more exposure people have to multiple deployment experience, the more likely they are to have problems at home and the readjustment from that," explained Dr. Steven Allen, of the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Team.
For local assistance e-mail Maria Fruin, OEF/OIF Veterans.
E-mail: rpiatt@ksl.com
