A question of oversight: A naturalistic study of military Veteran perspectives on outreach events and readjustment resources.

INTRODUCTION

Few studies have explored how U.S. military Veterans perceive outreach events designed to aid in their transition out of military service. Responding to this gap, the authors examined first-hand perspectives of Veterans who attend events in the context of seeking resources to support readjustment to civilian life.

METHODS

Using a naturalistic fieldwork approach, U.S. military Veterans and National Guard members were interviewed and screened for the presence of probable invisible injury (mental health condition or traumatic brain injury) at Veteran outreach events. A qualitative constant comparative approach, with open and axial coding, identified cross-cutting themes that were subsequently evaluated by an expert panel.

RESULTS

Across 14 outreach events, 44 participants were interviewed about their health screening and experiences at outreach events. Three major themes were present in the interviews: 1) participants reported support during readjustment but stressed mismatch between their unique needs and information available, 2) Veterans face barriers in transition due to stigma around disclosure and knowledge accessibility, and 3) Veterans discussed balancing relationship disruptions at home and in the workplace while establishing wider social and professional networks.

DISCUSSION: Veterans expressed interest in assistance with bureaucratic hurdles, described concerns about employment and reintegration, and identified the need for trust and disclosure in a safe space. Subject matter experts recommend viewing the transition as a multi-stage process aided by use of peers, inclusive policies, and recognition that mental health screening and treatment should be continual. Closer attention to the format, personnel, and content available in post-deployment events should be considered.