Addiction and the Troops in Vietnam

Paper Summary:

The purpose of this paper is to introduce, discuss and analyze the topic of American troops returning from Vietnam. Specifically argues that troops returning from Vietnam were addicted to drugs and/or alcohol. During the 1960s and 1970s, America was in upheaval. The country was under an onslaught of drug addiction and rebellion among its youth, and there was little support for the young Americans fighting a war in Vietnam. When many of these young men returned, they were greeted with jeers and hatred, rather than cheers and gratitude. Many of them developed drug or alcohol addictions in Vietnam, or shortly after returning. This paper argues that these addictions were inevitable due to the time of the war, the availability of drugs, and the Vietnam veterans' desire to block out their experiences in Vietnam any way they could.

From the Paper:

"What is the solution to stress disorder leading to addiction in America's fighting force? Perhaps a better understanding of just what these men and women face in combat and waiting for combat is necessary. However, that is not the only solution. Clearly, a better understanding and treatment of substance abuse is also required. Many veterans returning home from the War in Iraq note they find themselves alienated from friends and family, and have no support from the government they served. On a veteran's web site, one soldier noted the difficulties he faced when he returned home, including increased alcohol use, fights with his wife, and a growing sense of dissatisfaction with his life. "

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