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1 Prevalence and correlates of complicated grief in military primary care: Implications for healthcare providers

Prevalence and correlates of complicated grief in military primary care: Implications for healthcare providers

APA Citation:

Gibson, L. P. (2024). Prevalence and correlates of complicated grief in military primary care: Implications for healthcare providers. Journal of Death and Dying. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1177/00302228241241098

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1177/00302228241241098

Focus:

Mental health
Veterans

Branch of Service:

Multiple branches

Military Affiliation:

Active Duty
Veteran

Population:

Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)

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Research & Summary

Authors: Gibson, Lauren P.

Year: 2024

Abstract

Grief is a universal experience, but for approximately 1 in 10 individuals, grief can become impairing. Despite servicemembers’ frequent exposure to death, research on grief in the military remains limited. The purpose of the study was to explore the prevalence and correlates of complicated grief (CG) in military primary care. A quantitative survey was conducted with 161 non-treatment-seeking service members, veterans, and their dependents, of whom 138 reported a significant loss. Results revealed that 35% of the respondents who were bereaved met the cut-off score of 25 on the Inventory of Complicated Grief (ICG). Furthermore, 10% met the cut-off score of 30 on the Prolonged Grief Disorder-13-Revised Scale (PG-13-R). Importantly, death by suicide and pre-existing mental health conditions were associated with greater symptom severity. These findings have important implications for primary care providers and other clinicians working with military populations.

2 Resilience after combat: A prospective, longitudinal study of Marines and Navy Corpsmen

Resilience after combat: A prospective, longitudinal study of Marines and Navy Corpsmen

APA Citation:

Yurgil, K. A., Ricca, H., & Baker, D. G. (2024). Resilience after combat: A prospective, longitudinal study of Marines and Navy Corpsmen. Journal of Health Psychology. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1177/13591053241236539

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1177/13591053241236539

Focus:

Deployment
Mental health

Branch of Service:

Navy
Marine Corps
Multiple branches

Military Affiliation:

Active Duty

Population:

Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)

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Research & Summary

Authors: Yurgil, Kate A.; Ricca, Hayden; Baker, Dewleen G.

Year: 2024

Abstract

Resilience is common, yet our understanding of key biopsychosocial and environmental correlates is limited. Additionally, perceived resilience is often conflated with absence of psychiatric symptoms. Here we leverage prospective, longitudinal data from 1835 Marines and Navy Corpsmen to examine predictors of perceived resilience 3 months after a combat deployment, while controlling for pre-deployment and concurrent psychiatric symptoms. Marines and Corpsmen did not differ significantly on psychosocial or clinical factors, and 50.4% reported high perceived resilience after deployment. Across groups, the strongest predictors of post-deployment perceived resilience were pre-deployment perceived resilience, positive emotions, and social support. Concurrent depression was the only clinical symptom negatively associated with perceived resilience. Our findings suggest that perceived resilience is a multi-dimensional construct that involves both psychosocial and personality factors, including but not limited to low psychopathology. Notably, establishing strong social support networks and encouraging positive emotions may help promote resilience following deployment.

3 Suicide without warning: Results from the Army Study to Assess Risk and Resilience in Servicemembers (STARRS)

Suicide without warning: Results from the Army Study to Assess Risk and Resilience in Servicemembers (STARRS)

APA Citation:

Dempsey, C. L., Ao, J., Georg, M. W., Aliaga, P. A., Brent, D. A., Benedek, D. M., …Ursano, R. J. (2024). Suicide without warning: Results from the Army Study to Assess Risk and Resilience in Servicemembers (STARRS). Journal of Mood & Anxiety Disorders, 7, Article 100064. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xjmad.2024.100064

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xjmad.2024.100064

Focus:

Mental health

Branch of Service:

Army

Military Affiliation:

Active Duty

Population:

Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)

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Research & Summary

Authors: Dempsey, Catherine L.; Ao, Jingning; Georg, Matthew W.; Aliaga, Pablo A.; Brent, David A.; Benedek, David M.; Zuromski, Kelly L.; Nock, Matthew K.; Heeringa, Steven G.; Kessler, Ronald C.; Stein, Murray B.; Ursano, Robert J.

Year: 2024

Abstract

Objectives The rate of suicide increased in members of the United States Army since 2011 after the Iraq and Afghanistan wars and continues to be a major concern. In order to reverse this disturbing trend, it is vital to understand the risk and protective factors for suicide death in servicemembers. Methods Data were obtained from a case-control psychological autopsy study, which compared U.S. Army suicide decedent cases (n = 135) to a probability sample of living controls (n = 255) who are also service members weighted to be representative of the Army. Interviews were conducted with next-of-kin (NOK) and supervisor (SUP) informants. Multivariable logistic regressions models were constructed using predictors significant after controlling for multiple comparisons. Results The most parsimonious multivariable model controlling for deployment status, as reported by SUP were: spouse or partner leaving him or her in the past month (OR= 28.5 [95% CI =1.8, 442.7] χ²= 5.72, p =.0168); a smaller social network (OR =.2 [95% CI =.1, 0.9] χ²= 3.97, p =.0462), being less likely to seek help from a mental health counselor (OR =.3 [95% CI =.1, 0.8] χ²= 5.35, p =.0207) and less likely to be cautious (OR=.2 [95% CI =.01,.8] χ²=5.42, p =.0199). The AUC =.88 [95%CI = 0.82, 0.94) for this regression model suggests strong prediction. Conclusions Our findings suggest that recent relationship problems, especially in soldiers who are less likely to seek out support from others, may be warning signs for detection and prevention of imminent risk of suicide and according to supervisor informant surveys, had neither evidence of a mental health disorder, nor disclosed suicidal ideation or self-harm. Implications for suicide prevention are discussed.

4 Concurrent randomized control trials of the 1-year efficacy of two couple relationship education programs: ELEVATE and Couples Connecting Mindfully

Concurrent randomized control trials of the 1-year efficacy of two couple relationship education programs: ELEVATE and Couples Connecting Mindfully

APA Citation:

Adler-Baeder, F., McGill, J., Dede Yildirim, E., Gregson, K., Cooper, E., Burke, L., Finnegan, V., & Jackel, R. (2022). Concurrent randomized control trials of the 1-year efficacy of two couple relationship education programs: ELEVATE and Couples Connecting Mindfully. Family Process, 61(3), 986–1004. https://doi.org/10.1111/famp.12750

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1111/famp.12750

Focus:

Couples
Programming
Other

Population:

Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)

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Research & Summary

Authors: Adler-Baeder, Francesca; McGill, Julianne; Dede Yildirim, Elif; Gregson, Kimberly; Cooper, Erin; Burke, Leah; Finnegan, Vanessa; Jackel, Roberta

Year: 2022

Abstract

A long-standing university-community partnership used a longitudinal randomized control trial to implement and evaluate two couple relationship education (CRE) curricula, ELEVATE and Couples Connecting Mindfully (CCM), among an economically and racially diverse population of adult couples. Married and non-married couples (n = 929 couples) completed baseline surveys and were randomly assigned to either one of the two program groups or to the control group by implementation site. Follow-up surveys were collected at 2 months, 6 months, and 1 year after baseline. Using an intent-to-treat approach, growth curve modeling comparisons of trajectories indicated program effects at 1 year post-baseline in key outcome areas. Both the ELEVATE and the CCM group reported significant gains in couple relationship skills, couple quality, and family harmony over time compared to the control group that experienced either no change or declines. Further, the ELEVATE group also demonstrated positive program effects on measures of mental health and sleep quality. An assessment of the central premise of CRE indicated that the immediate post-program improvements in couple relationship skills predicted later couple quality for both program groups. This study indicates that both ELEVATE and CCM can be considered evidence-based CRE programs for use with a broad population of couples.

5 Facilitators and barriers to breastfeeding among veterans using Veterans Affairs maternity care benefits

Facilitators and barriers to breastfeeding among veterans using Veterans Affairs maternity care benefits

APA Citation:

Inderstrodt, J., Stryczek, K. C., Vargas, S. E., Crawford, J. N., Hooker, T., Kroll-Desrosiers, A. R., Marteeny, V., Wallace, K. F., & Mattocks, K. (2024). Facilitators and barriers to breastfeeding among veterans using Veterans Affairs maternity care benefits. Women's Health Issues. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.whi.2023.12.005

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.whi.2023.12.005

Focus:

Parents
Veterans

Branch of Service:

Multiple branches
Air Force
Army
Coast Guard
Marine Corps
Navy

Military Affiliation:

Veteran

Population:

Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)

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Research & Summary

Authors: Inderstrodt, Jill; Stryczek, Krysttel C.; Vargas, Sara E.; Crawford, Jennifer N.; Hooker, Taylor; Kroll-Desrosiers, Aimee R.; Marteeny, Valerie; Wallace, Kate F.; Mattocks, Kristin

Year: 2024

Abstract

Introduction U.S. veterans of childbearing age represent one of the fastest growing populations using Veterans Affairs (VA) health care. The VA does not provide obstetric care directly but pays for VA-enrolled veterans to obtain outside obstetric care. The VA also provides maternity care coordination (MCC) services, including lactation support. Breastfeeding benefits mothers and babies; however, previous research shows that veteran mothers quit exclusive breastfeeding earlier than the American Academy of Pediatrics and World Health Organization recommendation of 6 months. This study aimed to understand facilitators and barriers to breastfeeding among a cohort of veterans who used VA maternity care benefits. Methods Qualitative data from an open-ended question from a national sample of postpartum veterans using VA pregnancy benefits were coded using deductive and inductive content analysis within a matrix framework. Quantitative data were used to contextualize the responses. Results Four themes emerged from the data: (1) impacts on health of baby/mother; (2) the ability to breastfeed; (3) early postnatal experiences breastfeeding; and (4) cost/convenience. Among those who responded to the open-ended breastfeeding question (329/669), most participants (n = 316; 96%) attempted breastfeeding their current baby. Respondents who did not initiate breastfeeding or who discontinued breastfeeding earlier than planned cited diverse reasons. These included low milk supply, poor latch, nipple pain, mental health factors, and low confidence in their ability to continue breastfeeding. Participants cited the MCC program as a facilitator to breastfeeding, and non-VA hospital experiences were mentioned as barriers. Conclusion Veterans in this cohort of 329 veterans who responded to an open-ended breastfeeding question wanted and attempted to breastfeed; however, barriers such as lactation challenges and unsupportive health care providers made it difficult to continue the practice. As the MCC program grows to include more lactation professionals, MCCs may address barriers such as lactation challenges and unsupportive non-VA health care providers. Further program development should focus on addressing these challenges prenatally.

6 Experiences of parental PTSD for children aged 9–17 in military and emergency first responder families

Experiences of parental PTSD for children aged 9–17 in military and emergency first responder families

APA Citation:

May, K., Van Hooff, M., Doherty, M., & Carter, D. (2023). Experiences of parental PTSD for children aged 9–17 in military and emergency first responder families. Journal of Child and Family Studies, 32, 3816–3834. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-023-02669-y

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-023-02669-y

Focus:

Mental health
Parents
Children
Trauma

Branch of Service:

International Military

Military Affiliation:

Active Duty
Veteran

Population:

Childhood (birth - 12 yrs)
School age (6 - 12 yrs)
Adolescence (13 - 17 yrs)
Adolescence (13 - 17 yrs)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)

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Research & Summary

Authors: May, Karen; Van Hooff, Miranda; Doherty, Matthew; Carter, Drew

Year: 2023

Abstract

This study is the first to examine the experiences of children aged 9–17 who have a military or emergency first responder (EFR) parent with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These experiences of children are important to understand through a lens of intergenerational trauma theory, given the high rates of PTSD in these service populations. Additionally, we need to know if they differ from the experiences of children of civilian parents with PTSD. To examine this, we conducted a total of 17 in-depth interviews in Australia with 5 service parents, 5 co-parents and 7 children aged 9–17 who have a parent who had formerly served in the military or an emergency service. Interviewees were not always from the same family. The families included single-parent, dual-parent, separated, and same-sex families. Gender and service type (military or EFR) were evenly distributed among interviewees. We used a critical humanist approach and undertook a reflexive thematic analysis of the interview data. The major themes were (1) parental emotional extremes, volatility, and unpredictability, (2) changes in home and family relations, (3) impacts on child wellbeing, and (4) PTSD awareness and help-seeking. We found evidence of specific impacts for children related to a combination of parental PTSD symptoms and service conditioning and culture. This study highlights the role of reduced parental capacity in the transmission of trauma from parent to child. It provides an evidence base to direct policy and research into targeted and culturally specific therapeutic interventions and support services for children and parents in service families living with PTSD.

7 The impact of military trauma exposures on servicewomen's pregnancy outcomes: A scoping review

The impact of military trauma exposures on servicewomen's pregnancy outcomes: A scoping review

APA Citation:

Manzo, L. L., Dindinger, R. A., Batten, J., Combellick, J. L., & Basile-Ibrahim, B. (2024). The impact of military trauma exposures on servicewomen’s pregnancy outcomes: A scoping review. Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1111/jmwh.13620

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1111/jmwh.13620

Focus:

Mental health
Physical health
Parents
Trauma
Veterans
Other

Branch of Service:

Multiple branches

Military Affiliation:

Active Duty
Veteran

Population:

Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)

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Research & Summary

Authors: Manzo, Laura L.; Dindinger, Rebeccah A.; Batten, Janene; Combellick, Joan L.; Basile-Ibrahim, Bridget

Year: 2024

Abstract

Introduction Active-duty servicewomen and veterans make up nearly 20% of the United States military and may experience trauma specific to military service. Military-specific trauma includes combat deployment and military sexual trauma, exposure to which may result in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The purpose of this scoping review is to examine the extent to which military trauma exposures impact the pregnancy outcomes of active-duty servicewomen and women veterans. Methods A systematic search of OVID MEDLINE, OVID Embase, and OVID PsycINFO from inception to September 25, 2023, identified studies examining associations between military trauma exposures and perinatal outcomes. Of the 614 studies identified, 464 were reviewed for relevance, with 16 meeting inclusion criteria. Results Of the 16 included studies, 14 found associations between military trauma exposure and adverse pregnancy outcomes including preterm birth, gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, low birth weight, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. The risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes increased with the severity of PTSD, the recency of combat deployment, and repetitive deployment. Discussion This scoping review strengthens the link between trauma exposures and adverse pregnancy outcomes for current and former military servicewomen. A gap in the literature persists regarding trauma exposure among active-duty servicewomen, which differs significantly from women veterans. As mental health conditions are the leading underlying cause of maternal mortality, standardized screening during the perinatal period for military-specific trauma exposures and PTSD is recommended for this population. Black servicewomen of junior enlisted rank carry disproportionate burdens of PTSD diagnosis and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Comprehensive prenatal and postpartum management may improve perinatal and neonatal outcomes for military servicewomen and provide an innovative approach to reducing existing racial disparities.

8 Brief family involvement enhances veteran homework quality during trauma-focused psychotherapy

Brief family involvement enhances veteran homework quality during trauma-focused psychotherapy

APA Citation:

Fernando, M., Fite, R. E., & Thompson-Hollands, J. (2024). Brief family involvement enhances veteran homework quality during trauma-focused psychotherapy. Psychological Trauma: Theory, Research, Practice, and Policy. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1037/tra0001678

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1037/tra0001678

Focus:

Couples
Trauma
Veterans

Branch of Service:

Multiple branches

Military Affiliation:

Veteran

Population:

Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)

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Research & Summary

Authors: Fernando, Michelle; Fite, Robert E.; Thompson-Hollands, Johanna

Year: 2024

Abstract

Objective: Homework has been shown to improve outcomes in cognitive-behavioral therapy, though less is known about the importance of homework during trauma-focused psychotherapy. Similarly, prior research suggests family context plays a key role in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)-related distress and treatment engagement. One potential way that families can facilitate better treatment outcomes is by promoting homework engagement. This study examined the impact of a brief family intervention (BFI) for PTSD toward this aim. We hypothesized that veterans with PTSD whose family members (FMs) received the BFI would have better homework completion and quality than those who did not receive the BFI. Method: This mixed-methods analysis examined 24 veteran-family dyads enrolled in a randomized clinical trial examining the BFI. All veterans were currently engaged in trauma-focused psychotherapy. Each veteran’s clinician rated their homework quality and completion after each therapy session. A subset of dyads also completed semistructured interviews posttreatment. A rapid qualitative analysis approach was used to examine themes in shifting family behavior post-BFI. Results: Quantitative analyses yielded partial support for our hypotheses: those in the BFI condition had significantly higher clinician-rated homework quality. While participants in the BFI condition had a higher homework completion rate, this difference did not reach statistical significance. Qualitative analyses suggested that the BFI prompted meaningful discussions about PTSD and increased FMs’ use of supportive (rather than accommodative) behavior when responding to PTSD-related distress. Conclusions: Involving FMs in PTSD treatment appears to shift the family context in a manner that improves homework quality in veterans.

9 Mental health profiles of depressive symptoms and personal well-being among active-duty military families

Mental health profiles of depressive symptoms and personal well-being among active-duty military families

APA Citation:

O'Neal, C. W., Lavner, J. A., Jensen, T. M., & Lucier-Greer, M. (2024). Mental health profiles of depressive symptoms and personal well-being among active-duty military families. Family Process. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1111/famp.13003

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1111/famp.13003

Focus:

Children
Couples
Mental health

Branch of Service:

Army

Military Affiliation:

Active Duty

Population:

Adolescence (13 - 17 yrs)
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)

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Research & Summary

Authors: O'Neal, Catherine Walker; Lavner, Justin A.; Jensen, Todd M.; Lucier-Greer, Mallory

Year: 2024

Abstract

Although some research has examined the mental health of individual family members in military families, additional research is needed that considers mental health among multiple members of the family system simultaneously and that characterizes subsets of families with distinct patterns. Mental health patterns of depressive symptoms and well-being in and among families were identified using latent profile analysis with a community sample of 236 military families with a service member (SM) parent, civilian partner, and adolescent. Drawing from the Family Adjustment and Adaptation Response model, we examined several military-related family demands (e.g., relocations, deployments) and capabilities (e.g., family cohesion, social support outside the family) as correlates of the family profiles. Three profiles emerged: thriving families (62.3% of the sample where all three family members reported relatively low depressive symptoms and high personal well-being), families with a relatively distressed SM (24.2%), and families with a relatively distressed adolescent (13.5%). Overall, there were no differences between the groups of families regarding military-related demands, yet there were differences between the groups regarding their capabilities, namely family cohesion and social support. In general, families in the thriving profile tended to have higher family cohesion and social support as reported by multiple family members compared to the other two profiles. Findings can inform the development of family needs assessments and tailored interventions (and intervention points) based on family profiles and current capabilities.

10 What works better? 1-year outcomes of an effectiveness trial comparing online, telehealth, and group-based formats of a military parenting program

What works better? 1-year outcomes of an effectiveness trial comparing online, telehealth, and group-based formats of a military parenting program

APA Citation:

Gewirtz, A. H., DeGarmo, D. S., & Lee, S. (2024). What works better? 1-year outcomes of an effectiveness trial comparing online, telehealth, and group-based formats of a military parenting program. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1037/ccp0000882

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1037/ccp0000882

Focus:

Children
Deployment
Parents
Programming

Branch of Service:

Multiple branches
Air Force
Army
Marine Corps
Navy

Military Affiliation:

Guard
Reserve
Active Duty

Population:

Childhood (birth - 12 yrs)
Adolescence (13 - 17 yrs)
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)

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Research & Summary

Authors: Gewirtz, Abigail H.; DeGarmo, David S.; Lee, Susanne

Year: 2024

Abstract

Gewirtz, A. H., DeGarmo, D. S., & Lee, S. (2024). What works better? 1- year outcomes of an effectiveness trial comparing online, telehealth, and group-based formats of a military parenting program. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 92(5), 310-319. https://doi.org/10.1037/ccp0000882

11 Role of military context and couple well-being in the psychological vulnerability of military wives in the United States

Role of military context and couple well-being in the psychological vulnerability of military wives in the United States

APA Citation:

Lucier-Greer, M., & Campbell, D. R. (2024). Role of military context and couple well-being in the psychological vulnerability of military wives in the United States. Journal of Military, Veteran and Family Health, 10(2), 37–46. https://doi.org/10.3138/jmvfh-2023-0065

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3138/jmvfh-2023-0065

Focus:

Mental health
Physical health
Couples
Other

Branch of Service:

Multiple branches

Military Affiliation:

Active Duty

Population:

Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)

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Research & Summary

Authors: Lucier-Greer, Mallory; Campbell, Debra R.

Year: 2024

Abstract

The psychological health of military spouses is essential for the health and readiness of the family system. Thus, it is essential to understand contextual and familial factors that play a role in the psychological vulnerability of military spouses. This study examined how aspects of military life (number of deployments, perceived social support from the military community, and assessments of military life satisfaction) and family life (namely, couple well-being) played a role in the psychological vulnerability (depressive symptoms and personal well-being) of 222 U.S. military wives. Results suggested that when military wives felt more social support from the military community, they typically reported greater well-being. Wives who were more satisfied with military life tended to indicate better couple well-being. In turn, greater couple well-being was linked to less psychological vulnerability, specifically, fewer depressive symptoms and higher well-being. Overall, the military context had some bearing on the psychological vulnerability of military wives, especially when they did not feel supported by the military community. Importantly, however, the couple relationship appeared to be the most salient factor associated with the psychological vulnerability of military wives. Promoting healthier couple relationships appears to be a potential leverage point for intervention.

12 Conceptualizing care partners' burden, stress, and support for reintegrating veterans: A mixed methods study

Conceptualizing care partners' burden, stress, and support for reintegrating veterans: A mixed methods study

APA Citation:

Rattray, N., Flanagan, M., Mann, A., Danson, L., Do, A.-N., Natividad, D., & Spontak, K. (2023). Conceptualizing care partners' burden, stress, and support for reintegrating veterans: A mixed methods study. Frontiers in Public Health, 11, Article 1295627. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2023.1295627

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2023.1295627

Focus:

Veterans
Mental health
Other

Branch of Service:

Multiple branches

Military Affiliation:

Veteran

Population:

Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)

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Research & Summary

Authors: Rattray, Nicholas; Flanagan, Mindy; Mann, Allison; Danson, Leah; Do, Ai-Nghia; Natividad, Diana; Spontak, Katrina

Year: 2024

Abstract

Background: People who support Veterans as they transition from their military service into civilian life may be at an increased risk for psychological distress. Existing studies focus primarily on paid family caregivers, but few studies include spouses and informal non-family “care partners.” We sought to identify key challenges faced by care partners of Veterans with invisible injuries. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 36 individuals involved in supporting a recently separated US military Veteran enrolled in a two-year longitudinal study. CPs completed validated measures on perceived stress, caregiving burden, quality of their relationship, life satisfaction, and flourishing. Independent t-tests were used to compare cases in these groups on caregiving burden, quality of their relationship, life satisfaction, and flourishing. Care partners were categorized as reporting high and low levels of stress. Exemplar cases were used to demonstrate divergences in the experiences of CPs with different levels of stress over time. Results: Care partners reported shifts in self-perception that occurred from supporting a Veteran, emphasizing how they helped Veterans navigate health systems and the processes of disclosing health and personal information in civilian contexts. Exemplar cases with high and low burden demonstrated divergent experiences in self-perception, managing multi-faceted strain, and coping with stress over time. Case studies of specific care partners illustrate how multi-faceted strain shifted over time and is affected by additional burden from childcare, financial responsibilities, or lack of education on mental health issues. Conclusions. Findings suggest unique needs of individuals who support military Veterans with invisible injuries, highlighting variations and diachronic elements of caregiving. This sample is younger than typical caregiver sample with implications for how best to support unpaid care partners caring for Veterans in the early to mid-period of their use of VA and civilian health services.

Library (12)

Date Range

Military REACH Publications

Focus Terms

Military Branch of Service

Sample Affiliation

Age Group

Military Affiliation

Publication Type