Veterans can suffer from a variety of mental and physical health issues, including PTSD, depression, and anxiety, which can lead to symptoms like difficulty sleeping, flashbacks, irritability, and a sense of being overwhelmed. These conditions are often accompanied by physical health problems such as chronic pain, pulmonary issues, and gastrointestinal problems, impacting their relationships, occupational performance, and overall quality of life. Support is available for those in crisis or who are concerned about a veteran, with resources like the Veterans Crisis Line offering confidential help. 

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Mental and physical suffering

• Mental health: Veterans face elevated risks for conditions such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety.
  • Symptoms can include reliving traumatic events (flashbacks), feeling on edge, avoiding reminders of the event, increased anger and irritability, and difficulty with emotional regulation.
  • A common experience is difficulty adjusting to civilian life after service, leading to low mood and negative thought patterns.
  • Combat veterans have particularly high rates of these conditions.
• Physical health: These mental health conditions are often linked to physical health problems.
  • Veterans may experience chronic pain, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and pulmonary issues.
• Social and occupational impacts: Suffering can also manifest in other areas of life.
  • Reduced occupational performance and social connections are common.
  • Relationship difficulties can arise, and the spouses of veterans may also experience distress. 

Support and resources

• For veterans in crisis: Confidential support is available 24/7.
  • Call or text 988 and select 1.
  • Text 838255.
• For general distress:
  • The PTSD Coach Online can help.
  • Focus on coping strategies like self-care, sticking to routines, and connecting with supportive people.
• Other support:The Veterans Crisis Line can connect you with trained responders.
  • If you are a concerned family member, resources are available for you as well, including support for spouses.
  • Support is also available through The
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  • National Center for PTSD.