Story Published:
Nov 6, 2009 at 6:34 PM EST
Story Updated:
Nov 6, 2009 at 6:34 PM EST
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Military personnel at Augusta's army post spoke with NBC Augusta 26 News about the mental and physical stress soldiers can experience when facing deployment.
Fort Gordon provides resources for their staff and troops. It's called SRP or the Soldier Readiness Program.
Fort Gordon's Eisenhower Hospital says it helps get soldiers mentally prepared for war duty.
"When you're getting deployed-your stress level goes up really high because you're here and then you're going into this new venture, sometimes you don't know what you're getting into," said Col. Jack Trakowski with behavioral health at Eisenhower Hospital.
That's why Fort Gordon puts their soldiers through a full evaluation known as an SRP process to test their physical and mental stability before they head oversees.
"The purpose is to one, make sure they're healthy enough to deploy and number two, when they come back, address any worries or concerns medically they may have," said Lt. Col. Dr. John Farr.
The soldiers fill out questionnaires.
Farr says if there's any doubts about a soldier's ability to serve, they're quickly addressed.
“If we have any concerns at all, we refer them to mental health care for an appropriate evaluation," said Farr.
That's where Col. Dr. Jack Trakowski with behavioral health comes in.
"People have marital issues, financial issues and that's a lot to wear on your mind when you're getting ready to deploy,” said Trakowski.
Trakowski says during the SRP process, those concerns come out and doctors are able to assist soldiers.
When they come back from oversees, the SRP process is done again.
"When they come back you want to make sure they're well and able to be around their family, friends and unit," said Trakowski.
There's also a professional program for doctors offered at Eisenhower Hospital.
Medical specialists, including psychologists, who treat soldiers on a daily basis, can also get therapy for themselves.
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