The effects of deployment to military combat on the individual and the family system are wide-reaching and can be severe. Military personnel may confront numerous potentially traumatizing experiences, including military-specific events and those experienced by civilians. Research suggests the most common traumatic events experienced during active duty are witnessing someone badly injured or killed or unexpectedly seeing a dead body. These exposures can have a serious impact on veteran mental health, with higher rates of PTSD, depression, suicide, and intermittent explosive disorders than the general public. These effects extend to the family, with increased risks for domestic violence, divorce, and child abuse. Including screening items to identify veterans and their families and improve the care provided. In addition, steps should be taken to refer or treat these patients using evidence-based interventions with proven efficacy for veterans.

The purpose of this course is to provide health and mental health professionals with an appreciation of the impact of military service on patient health as well as the skills necessary to effectively identify and intervene for these patients.

This course is designed to meet the Connecticut requirement for 2 hours of education on mental health conditions common to veterans and family members of veterans.

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