Service members who transition out of the military often face substantial challenges during their transition to civilian life. Leaving military service requires establishing a new community as well as sense of connectedness to that community. Little is known about how social connectedness may be related to other prominent transition outcomes, particularly symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The purpose of this study was to explore the role of social connectedness in the development of PTSD, as well as its relationship to the known risk factors of combat exposure and discharge status. Data used were drawn from a needs assessment survey of 722 veterans. A path model was specified to test direct and indirect effects of combat experiences, non-honorable discharge status, and social connectedness on PTSD symptoms. Results demonstrated positive direct effects for combat experiences and non-honorable discharge status on PTSD symptoms while social connectedness demonstrated a negative direct effect. Both combat experiences and non-honorable discharge status demonstrated negative direct effects on social connectedness and indirect on PTSD through the social connectedness pathway. Study findings indicate social connectedness may be an important factor related to PTSD in veterans as well as an intervention point for mitigating risk related to combat exposure and discharge status.

Many military veterans face significant challenges in civilian reintegration that can lead to troublesome behavior. Drawing on military transition theory (MTT) and using data from a survey of post-9/11 veterans in two metropolitan areas (n = 783), we investigate previously unexamined relationships between post-discharge strains, resentment, depression, and risky behavior, taking into account a set of control variables, including combat exposure. Results indicated that unmet needs at time of discharge and perceived loss of military identity are associated with increased risky behavior. Much of the effects of unmet discharge needs and loss of military identity are mediated by depression and resentment toward civilians. The results of the study are consistent with insights from MTT, providing evidence of specific ways in which transitions can affect behavioral outcomes. Moreover, the findings highlight the importance of helping veterans meet their post-discharge needs and adapt to changing identity, in order to reduce the risk of emotional and behavioral problems.

Military to Civilian Transition (MCT) is the process experienced by military personnel as they leave service and return to civilian life. This MCT process is thought to be challenging across a range of key areas such as employment, health, and community integration. Transitioning military personnel are offered various supports, trainings, and programs to assist them through the process to achieve successful transition to civilian life. However, despite the fact that a vast majority of transitioning veterans are either married or in a long-term relationship, similar support is not provided to the veteran spouse who simultaneously transitions with the exiting veteran. Moreover, due to a dearth of research investigating veteran spouses, their experiences are not well understood. This conceptual paper is a call to action for research to be conducted to investigate veteran spouses’ experiences as they transition to civilian life alongside their veteran and for an increase in tailored and targeted services to be available for these often forgotten, yet crucial, partners in MCT.

Background: While many health care providers have shifted toward telehealth services in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, little is known about the perception and acceptance of such services, particularly among vulnerable populations. Veterans, who are at increased risk of physical and mental health needs, may benefit from the use and availability of telehealth services. Materials and Methods: Cross sectional survey data related to telehealth use, satisfaction, and access were collected through an online survey. Participants from previous research studies and veterans receiving care at a national veteran behavioral health organization were invited to participate. Results: A total of 404 veterans participated. Before the pandemic, many veterans had never used telehealth for physical (72%) or mental (76%) health care. Since the start of the pandemic, 62% of participants reported they received some care through telehealth services. Most participants found telehealth valuable and helpful (82%), indicated the technology was well explained (77%), and felt that issues were resolved quickly and easily (67%). Access to care was limited among participants who utilize massage therapy (64%), dental care (53%), routine checkups (50%), acupuncture (50%), and physical therapy (48%). Discussion: These findings showed an increase in the use of telehealth services and overwhelming satisfaction among veterans. Despite this, some veterans indicated barriers to receiving physical and mental health care. Conclusions: This provides an opportunity to expand the use of telehealth services to meet the health care needs of veterans. Barriers to care should be addressed to minimize the impact on the well-being of veterans.