CNN iReport

Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury Sponsors Army Launch of Campaign, Encourages Soldiers to Reach Out

According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, more than 1.8 million service members have deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom since October 2001. Psychological stress can be a common result of deployment. However, many service members and veterans deny themselves treatment for psychological wounds out of the fear that doing so would hurt their careers, embarrass them and harm their families.

The Real Warriors Campaign is a multimedia public education campaign designed to combat the barriers that often prevent service members, veterans and their families from obtaining treatment for psychological wounds, depression, PTSD and traumatic brain injury.  The campaign makes reaching out easier by providing access to psychological health information and resources 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  Individuals can chat online to psychological health consultants through the campaign website, in addition to a toll free number.

The campaign will also release new public service announcements (PSAs), highlighting the stories of an Army Major and U.S. Army Reservist who received treatment for psychological health concerns and are maintaining successful military careers.

For more information, go to: www.realwarriors.net

This footage is free for unrestricted use. Broadcasters: please courtesy Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury