DoD's $300M PTSD/TBI Research Push, Ft. Hood Presidential Candidate Debate?, Online Sleeplessness Chat

• Congress and the Pentagon are in the midst of funding a record $300 million military PTSD/TBI research push this summer. With approximately 1.4 million Americans diagnosed with TBI annually, civilians will benefit from the groundbreaking drive, too. "The Pentagon also will target new ways of delivering therapy to PTSD victims living in remote areas of the USA and reducing the stigma that can keep victims from seeking help."
  
  
• Since last November, Military Spouses for Change has been on a mission to bring our presidential candidates together for a Fort Hood, Texas, debate and discussion of issues important to military families. Founder Carissa Picard has so far succeeded in securing a date (August 11); getting CBS to agree to broadcast the event live; and received candidate John McCain's OK. As for Barack Obama? He says that due to scheduling difficulties he can't be there. Maybe something will change by then and the conversation will get underway. If not, a tip of the hat to MSC for their effort.
  
  
• Don't forget Tuesday's LA Times online chat on the sleeping difficulties of combat veterans diagnosed with PTSD. The chat begins at 9:00 am Eastern/noon Pacific, but the accompanying article is already online. Some stats: "About 36% of Army troops who have been back from Iraq for a year said they struggled nearly every day with feeling tired. About 34% said they had difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep or sleeping too much nearly every day... About 70% of veterans being treated for [PTSD] have sleep problems."
  
  
• And if you're looking for more stats on the mental health and well being of our OEF/OIF troops and veterans, "The military's invisible wounds" by David Isenberg would be well worth a read.