Reintegration Challenges in U.S. Service Members and Veterans Following Combat Deployment

Abstract

Although the majority of combat veterans reintegrate into civilian life without long-lasting problems, a sizable minority return from deployment with psychiatric or physical injuries that warrant medical attention. Even in the absence of diagnosable disorders, many experience functional problems that impede full reintegration into civilian life. Considerable resources have been allocated to studying, diagnosing, treating, and compensating combat-related disorders. This important work has resulted in significant improvements in healthcare for those with deployment-related difficulties. Nevertheless, many service members and veterans with reintegration difficulty may not receive needed help. Based on our review, we argue that in addition to treatment and compensation for diagnosable postdeployment problems, a comprehensive approach to reintegration is needed that includes partnership between the government, private sector, and the public.