Iraq veteran uses rap to treat his PTSD

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Iraq war veteran Leo Dunson is using rap music to examine the disappointment he feels since returning to civilian life.

The 26-year-old Las Vegas college student was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder after he left the Army in 2008.

In recent years, Dunson has written dozens of rap songs detailing his emotional wounds. His music is violent, with lyrics about suicide, domestic violence and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Dunson says his music is the only thing keeping him alive. He is recently divorced and feels like he can’t make friends.

Roughly one in six Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans have been diagnosed with PTSD. Music therapy is increasingly being used to help veterans confront their emotions.

Neurological experts say rap might help PTSD victims process the violence they experienced in conflict.