https://aub.ie/MilitaryREACH-DerefinkoTRIP

Derefinko, K. J., Hallsell, T. A., Isaacs, M. B., Clovin, L. W., Salgado Garcia, F. I., & Bursac, Z. (2019). Perceived needs of veterans transitioning from the military to civilian life. The Journal of Behavioral Health Services & Research, 46(3), 384-398. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11414-018-9633-8

This pilot study examined the challenges that service members face when transitioning from military to civilian life. Ninety veterans who recently transitioned to civilian life between 2012 and 2015 completed open-ended questionnaires related to barriers to using the Veterans Affairs (VA) health care system and recommendations for improving services. Themes that emerged included veterans’ needs for more access to improved services and increased availability of mental health, substance use, and economic/employment counseling.

https://doi.org/10.1007/s11414-018-9633-8

Derefinko, Karen J., Hallsell, Troy A., Isaacs, Matthew B., Colvin, Lauren W., Garcia, Francisco I. S., Bursac, Zoran

Despite existing separation services provided by the military, many transitioning to civilian life report continued or even worsening issues, including anger outbursts, PTSD, sustained substance use, and strained family relationships. Further, only 61% of the 1,906,754 veterans separated since 2002 participate in the VA health care system after separation, indicating that at least three quarters of a million veterans are not captured by research conducted in VA systems. The current study (N = 90) examined the perceived needs of veterans transitioning from the military to civilian life, assessed issues that prevent these individuals from participating in VA health care upon separation, and captured veteran recommendations to improve existing separation services, either prior to or after the transition to civilian life. Veterans identified several needs, including improved access to care, mental health and substance use counseling, and preparedness for adjustment and economical/financial issues. Implications for both care and policy are discussed.

Springer

Article
REACH Publication

Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, KJD
Department of History, University of Memphis, TAH
Department of History, University of Memphis, MBI
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Clinical Trials Administration, LWC
Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, FISG
Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, ZB