Abstract: This report originates from the ‘Sanctions, Support and Service Leavers’ project at the University of Salford, the only substantive research in the UK to focus on the experiences of veterans within the social security benefits system. This report provides an understanding of how the benefits system – and some of the processes and contact channels within the system – are experienced by those who have backgrounds of trauma, making the case for the application of trauma-informed care within this system.
Abstract: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides health care to veterans for mental health conditions, such as depression and substance use disorders. VA data showed that the percentage of student veterans who received mental health care at VA facilities increased from fiscal years 2017 through 2022, and at a higher rate than that of the total veteran population. (See figure.) VA data show student veterans were primarily treated for depression-related disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and anxiety-related disorders. VA officials said younger veterans typically seek mental health care more than older veterans, and most student veterans are younger than age 34. Further, the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated mental health conditions for the general population, including for veterans.