The federal government is helping Alabama pastors learn how to assist veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.
The Veterans Affairs Medical Center is Tuscaloosa is offering a seminar this week to educate pastors, priests and other church leaders about PTSD and depression.
VA chaplain John Bailey says research shows that almost half of veterans will turn to a member of the clergy first before they seek out a mental health provider.
Bailey says the agency is trying to help clergy members deal with issues affecting veterans. The seminar will include the warning signs of PTSD and depression, plus legal issues that sometimes affect veterans.
The free seminar will be held Thursday at the Tuscaloosa VA Medical Center.
Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.
