The Challenges Posed by the Mental Health Needs of Today’s Military Service Members and Veterans
editThe aim of this chapter is to give providers an overview of challenges posed by the mental health needs of veterans and assist them in their development of military cultural competence. This chapter will (1) offer an overview of veterans and service members (who they are and their characteristics), (2) summarize their “signature” and comorbid mental health concerns, (3) address stressors and mental health concerns within the context of practice, and (4) consider these concerns within the context of policy. Case vignettes are also included to illustrate veterans’ experiences, their relevance to mental health concerns, and the distinct yet important role that providers can play in offering community-based support to veterans who are experiencing mental health concerns.