Evidence-Based Practices, Ethical Considerations, and Advocacy Efforts to Reduce Mental Health Stigma in Veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Abstract

Military personnel who see combat are exposed to traumatic experiences beyond what most civilians ever see. These events pose significant and imminent danger of physical injury and death; those lucky enough to survive combat risk developing mental and physical health issues upon their return. Problems common to veterans include depression, substance abuse, and heart disease, but the most pervasive is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This paper will examine the internal and external factors that influence the development of PTSD, discuss current evidence-based practices, and address the stigma of mental health care. A discussion of the ethical questions that face many clinicians treating veteran populations follows. Finally, this paper will address life-long learning opportunities and suggest advocacy strategies to reduce the stigma associated with mental health care.