at least one out of five

Army studies show that at least 20 percent to 25 percent of the soldiers who have served in Iraq display symptoms of serious mental-health problems, including depression, substance abuse and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Administration officials say there are extensive programs to heal soldiers both at home and in Iraq.

But an NPR investigation at Colorado's Fort Carson has found that even those who feel desperate can have trouble getting the help they need. In fact, evidence suggests that officers at Fort Carson punish soldiers who need help, and even kick them out of the Army.

So begins a recent report on NPR's All Things Considered, which has both the audio and a transcript at the link.

Obviously punishing people who need help is about the stupidest thing you can do. Not only does it do a disservice to the soldier who needs help, but it sends a clear message to the rest of the platoon: if you think you're having mental health issues, keep your fucking mouth shut, or else.

It's quite a sordid little story, but one which sadly comes as no surprise to anyone who has been following the way that soldiers have been treated during this shabby war. There's money for victory celebrations (never mind that there hasn't even been a victory yet, and that there won't be), but not enough money for body armor. There's money for Bush to prance around on an aircraft carrier, but not enough money for adequate mental health care. What a mess. What a disgrace.

A tip of the hat to Shakespeare's Sister.