What Are the Effects of War on People?
The effects of war on people are varied and dependent upon many different factors. Soldiers are effected by war in ways that are different from their families, who are also victims. Other victims of war include citizens of wartorn countries, who are often affected both psychologically as well as physically. War affects all people and alters life dramatically, as its effects can be both physical injury of varying degrees of severity and the dangerous invisible wounds caused by psychological trauma and stress.
The effects of war on soldiers often involve emotional and psychological issues, as well as obvious physical injuries that result from combat. Many soldiers suffer from a condition known as posttraumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. PTSD is the result of severe trauma. Soldiers experiencing this condition often have flashbacks in which they relieve moments of terror.
The families of soldiers are affected by war and may experience secondary traumatization. Children with one or more parent deployed may experience nightmares and anxious behavior caused by constant worry. People who are living in areas that are affected by war are the innocent victims of combat, suffering physically and psychologically. These people can lose loved ones as collateral damage and experience the terror of battle first-hand. If homes are lost, many of these people are forced to become refugees until their country is rebuilt.
