Emory Healthcare is addressing the problem of post-traumatic stress disorder among veterans through its Veterans Program, according to a press release from the Wounded Warrior Project. The Veterans Program, which is part of the Warrior Care Network, connects veterans with its sleep program and focuses on two areas of concern: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD), which can cause problems simultaneously.
As many as 500,000 U.S. veterans live with the effects of PTSD, which can involve flashbacks, frightening thoughts, anger, and interruptions in sleep.
According to Don Bliwise, MD, an AASM member and the director of the Sleep, Aging, and Chronobiology Program at Emory Healthcare, “Disturbed sleep with troubling dreams is one of the defining characteristics of PTSD, so it is a big problem for vets.”
He also noted that, “Successful treatments for PTSD should also work toward controlling this kind of sleep disturbance.”
The AASM applauds Emory Healthcare for implementing its Veterans Program. Recognizing the high prevalence of sleep problems among soldiers and veterans, the AASM has drafted a House of Representatives resolution (H. Res. 46), which has been introduced in the 115th Congress.
We encourage our members to contact your Representative to support the resolution. This sample letter can be used to convey your support.
Members can also support by making a donation to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine Political Action Committee (AASM PAC). The AASM PAC is a bi-partisan political action committee to educate and financially support lawmakers who are working to protect the future of your sleep practice. AASM PAC is the most effective and visible advocacy tool to advance the legislative priorities of the field of sleep medicine. AASM members who are U.S. residents can support the PAC by making a donation today.
