Dorothy A. Tormey
Counseling Psychology

MENTAL HEALTH CARE ISSUES IN COMBAT RECOVERY ASSISTANCE

The present study investigated perceptions of the mental health issues of most concern to mental health care professionals working with combat exposure veterans. A modified Delphi approach was used in order to explore these issues and gain additional knowledge in this area from a panel of ten experts. The results revealed an agreement among the participants regarding future challenges that are consistent with current literature, which include: stigma with regard to seeking mental health care, access to resources, long-term effects of combat-exposure, timely and effective treatment of Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI’s), increased rates of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), increased rates of suicide and substance abuse, family treatment and education (with regard to re-integration), need for early interventions, and specialized training and experience in treating combat exposure veterans in both military and civilian settings. The results indicate gaps in the current Mental Health Care system that require further investigation.

To learn more, please contact Tamara Palmer at tlp205@lehigh.edu or 610.758.3226.