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People realize that we're very good at sending people to…

“People realize that we're very good at sending people to war, but we're not good at taking care of them. And people are coming back from war now; years ago, they would have been killed, now they're wounded; and they're coming back alive and with post-traumatic stress. So, I think Americans are…” quote by Anna Deavere Smith
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“People realize that we're very good at sending people to war, but we're not good at taking care of them. And people are coming back from war now; years ago, they would have been killed, now they're wounded; and they're coming back alive and with post-traumatic stress. So, I think Americans are sensible enough to know we've got to figure out a way to take care of them.”

Anna Deavere Smith

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Society excels at waging war but fails to support veterans, especially those with PTSD.

In simple terms: War is easy, caring is hard.

Key Takeaway

Improve veteran care systems.

Themes

war veterans mental health policy

Mood

empathetic concerned

Type

social inspirational

When to use this quote

  • military discharge
  • healthcare reform
  • community support
  • rehabilitation programs

Key Concepts

Trauma care social responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • What policies best aid returning soldiers?
  • How can society shift priorities?
A Different Perspective

Funding and stigma hinder effective care.

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