Returning Veterans 
Request an Appointment

Returning Veterans — Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

flagIf you’re a veteran returning from combat, you may experience difficulty in making the transition from the front to the home front. Problems with sleeping, anger, irritability, relating to your family and friends, or feeling depressed and withdrawn are not uncommon for returning soldiers. If you are a family member or friend of a returning vet, you may notice and be deeply affected by these issues, as well.

The good news is that help is out there, and you have every right and reason to make use of the resources available to you. At Geisinger, we understand the needs of returning veterans, particularly those coming home to more rural areas.

Veteran Services

Eric Hill, program manager, veterans services, decribes the Reaching Rural Veterans Initiative designed to help returning veterans transition into civilian life.

We suggest the following steps and web resources to get you started.

  • Make sure you’re enrolled through the VA. That way, you’re assured of proper processing of any future claims or benefits.
  • Find a primary care doctor you feel comfortable talking with. A Geisinger primary care physician is well equipped to help you navigate these areas of concern. Or, you may already have a doctor you know and respect.
  • Tell your doctor about any difficulties you’re having that may be related to your military experiences. Don’t be surprised if you start having troubling thoughts or feelings at a later time. Sometimes problems take months or even years to emerge. Always be ready to discuss them with your doctor whenever they may come up.
  • If you decide to choose a civilian doctor, make sure you give the armed forces your express written permission to release your medical records, so your civilian doctor can have access to it.
  • Many returning vets find it helpful to talk through problems with someone other than family and friends. The Chaplain Service in your unit can provide support—or you may wish to speak to a minister or other spiritual advisor you know at home.
  • Professional therapy is available in the form of individual, group or couples counseling. A therapist can help you decide which is best for you.

In addition, many websites offer information and support for returning soldiers. Take some time to review the following web resources: