Addressing the Behavioral Health Needs of Returning Veterans

Course overview

In 2019, 3.7 million veterans reported a behavioral health disorder (McCance-Katz, 2020). The unique experiences related to deployment and reintegration to civilian life, as well as exposure to military culture, increases the likelihood of onset or worsening of behavioral health disorders among active duty service members and veterans. Mental healthcare professionals need to have a clear understanding of behavioral health disorders common among veteran populations. Further, they should be aware of how the military experiences and culture contributes to their disorders and treatment, and the types of care models and interventions effective for veteran populations. The goal of this course is to provide psychologists, licensed professional counselors, addictions professionals, marriage and families counselors, and social workers in health and human service setting with background information on how military culture can contribute to the onset or worsening of behavioral health disorders and effective treatment approaches for veterans.