n recent years, the military has made great progress in the assessment and treatment of PTSD and other combat-related psychological disorders. Although once ignored by the military, the mental health needs of today’s soldiers and combat veterans are addressed through a variety of psychological services during and after deployment. For instance, upon returning from deployment, combat veterans are assessed for psychological disorders and, if necessary, provided psychological treatment. However, some experts question the value and utility of these procedures given the nature of military culture.

In this Discussion, you will analyze the military’s response to the mental health needs of combat veterans and any potential barriers to treatment that might exist.

To prepare for this Discussion:

• Think about how the military screens for and treats combat-related psychological disorders.
• Consider core actions employed by military mental health personnel following traumatic incidents.
• Think about the personal and cultural barriers that combat veterans might encounter when seeking and engaging in treatment for combat-related psychological disorders.