“Brannan and Caleb can be tense with their own agitation, and tense about each other’s”

-This claim implies that not only Caleb has become aware and conscious of his possible reactions, but it also affects Brannan’s as well.

-Brannan has developed awareness of her stresses towards Caleb’s behavior and adapted to it, resulting in distress and emotional exhaustion.

“Caleb screaming at Brannan because she’s just woken him up from a nightmare, after making sure she’s at least an arm’s length away in case he wakes up swinging”

-This claim implies that contagiousness of PTSD may be spread not by memories and flashbacks, but in other ways, such as behaving and habitually responding to a possible flashback.

-This method of keeping a safe distance may cause other symptoms of PTSD; the physical comfort of both partners is crucial, yet both may be subconsciously aware and in distress of a possible flight or fight reaction to sudden movements, sounds, or even silence.

“Caleb has been home since 2006, way more than enough time for Brannan to catch his symptoms.”

-This claim says that the symptoms of PTSD may be spread through loved ones.

-The flashbacks and memories cannot be spread; however, Brannan may show symptoms such as constantly looking over her shoulder or being more aware of sudden movements or sounds. This may cause distress, as we may make such movements without knowing it.

“She has not, unlike military wives she advises, ever been beat up.”

-This claim says that many wives of soldiers have been abused due to the soldier’s agitation and flashback reactions, whether it is intentional or not.

-Caleb and Brannan love and support each other in tough times when dealing with PTSD. With the help of a support pet, comfort and support is crucial for PTSD symptoms at the cost of developing symptoms of PTSD.