Exploring combat-related loss and behavioral health among OEF/OIF veterans with chronic PTSD and mTBI.

While combat-related loss is likely to result in the development of lingering stress responses, little is known about its impact on behavioral health. The purpose of this study was to present preliminary results on war-related losses and behavioral health among Operations Enduring Freedom/Iraqi Freedomveterans. Veterans who suffered losses, to include noncombat losses (relationships back home) that occurred while the combatant was in the combat theater, reported more stress, depressive symptoms, and combat experiences. Outcomes were worse for veterans reporting two losses. Most notable was the decline in social support as losses increased. Also of note, avoidance and arousal symptom clusters were the most endorsed. While the pattern was more pronounced for those experiencing loss, results were consistent regardless of number of losses. Language: en