What Conflict Does to Us - Recollections From the Iraq War

The Iraq war left an indelible mark on its participants, both physical and psychological. Many soldiers returned home with visible wounds, such as missing limbs or burns. Others suffered from invisible wounds, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD can cause a range of symptoms, including flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and depression. These symptoms can make it difficult for veterans to reintegrate into civilian life. Some veterans also struggle with guilt and shame over the things they they saw and did during the war. The conflict in Iraq took a heavy toll on its participants, and the effects of the war continue to be felt today.