Post-deployment mental health
Military service is demanding — physically, emotionally, and psychologically. Many Veterans experience mental health challenges after deployment that are a normal response to abnormal circumstances. Understanding these conditions is the first step toward getting help.
Post-deployment mental health conditions are not a sign of weakness. They are recognized medical conditions with effective, evidence-based treatments. The VA Mid-Atlantic MIRECC is dedicated to researching, understanding, and improving care for these conditions so that every Veteran can access the help they need.
The post-9/11 generation
The generation of Veterans who served following September 11, 2001 faces distinct challenges that shape physical and mental health needs.
As of 2023, more than 4.4 million Veterans have served on active duty since September 11, 2001. Post-9/11 Veterans now represent more than 1 out of 4 of all Veterans. They are more likely to have been deployed during military service and are much more likely to have served in a combat zone than Veterans of previous eras — nearly one-in-three were deployed three or more times.
Because they were more likely to have deployed and seen combat, post-9/11 Veterans have experienced increased rates of post-deployment physical and mental health problems. Almost half have a service-connected disability, report emotionally traumatic or distressing experiences, or have sought help for emotional issues.
Common post-deployment conditions
These conditions frequently affect Veterans after deployment. Each is treatable — effective therapies and supports exist for all of them.
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PTSD can develop after exposure to a traumatic event. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, and avoidance of trauma reminders.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
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TBI is a major health concern related to recent conflicts. The Center works with VA and DoD partners on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
Traumatic Brain Injury
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Depression involves persistent low mood, loss of interest, fatigue, changes in sleep and appetite, and difficulty functioning.
Depression
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Substance use disorders often co-occur with PTSD and depression among Veterans managing deployment-related stress.
Substance Use and Alcohol
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Nicotine dependence is closely linked to stress, anxiety, and other mental health conditions common after deployment.
Tobacco and Nicotine Use
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Veteran suicide remains a critical public health concern. Risk factors include PTSD, depression, substance use, and social isolation.
Suicide and Crisis
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Insomnia and sleep disturbances are common among returning Veterans and can worsen mental health, quality of life, and work performance.
Sleep Disorders
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Anxiety disorders involve excessive worry and fear that interferes with daily life and may be triggered by deployment-related experiences.
Anxiety
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Chronic pain is closely linked to depression, anxiety, PTSD, and sleep disorders. Treating both together improves outcomes.
Chronic Pain
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Anger and irritability are common responses to deployment stress. Tools and therapies are available to help Veterans manage anger in healthy ways.
Anger
