Many returning OEF/OIF veterans, as well as their families, are exhibiting a number of psychological difficulties and may have some problems adjusting to the return home. OEF/OIF veterans, for example, have been shown to have high rates of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, alcohol abuse, physical health problems, difficulties managing anger, and suicide. In addition, the families of OEF/OIF veterans also face numerous stressors. Learn more about these difficulties, as well as ways of coping with them, for OEF/OIF veterans and their families.
When reading about the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the term, "OEF/OIF" is often used? Not sure what is meant by this term? Read on to learn the definition.
Returning OEF/OIF service members are showing a number of difficulties, including PTSD, alcohol and drug use, and depression. PTSD rates and information on the use of mental health services among returning OEF/OIF service members is presented in this article.
Following traumatic exposure, not everyone will develop PTSD. OEF/OIF service members with a history of traumatic exposure or PTSD may be at greater risk for developing psychological problems when deployed to a war zone. Fortunately, there are ways of reducing this vulnerability.
OEF/OIF veterans have been found to exhibit high rates of PTSD. The veterans with PTSD may also be at risk for problems with anger. Learn more about the connection between PTSD and anger among OEF/OIF veterans here.
High rates of alcohol abuse have been found among OEF/OIF veterans. It is possible that alcohol abuse may be a response to the experience of potentially traumatic events while in the military. This article provides some information on how and why PTSD and alcohol abuse may be connected.
High rates of smoking have been found among military populations, such as Vietnam veterans. However, little is known about rates of smoking among veterans from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Research focused on better understanding the connection between smoking and OEF/OIF veterans is presented here.
Studies have shown that many OEF/OIF veterans are experiencing difficulties with PTSD, depression, alcohol use and anger. A study, though, also found that these veterans may also be at risk for a number of physical health problems.
Reports indicate that there are high rates of suicide in OEF/OIF veterans. Learn more about risk for suicide among OEF/OIF veterans and what to do if you are experiencing thoughts of suicide.
Studies have found that many female service members experience military sexual trauma or MST. However, less is known about the effects of MST among OEF/OIF veterans. This article presents findings of a study that looked at how MST affected readjustment among a group of women OEF/OIF veterans.
It has been found that many OEF/OIF veterans are developing psychological difficulties as a result of their experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan. Coming home from these wars, however, can also be a major source of stress. The level of social support a veteran experiences from his family and community can have a major impact on a veteran's adaptation to being home.
Many soldiers are returning from the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars showing signs of PTSD and other difficulties. However, what effect are these wars having on the children of deployed soldiers? Read about one study that examined the impact the war has had on the children of OEF/OIF soldiers.
The Department of Veterans Affairs has launched a new website that provides a wealth of information and resources for returning veterans. You can check out this important website here.
