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In combat, service members develop unique skills and habits that allow them to function effectively in this stressful environment. Each service member needs time to transition back to his/her family and community since those combat habits and skills can create challenges in civilian life. Just as it took time to develop the combat habits, it takes time to stop using them.

The service member may not be aware of having these habits or using these skills. Some people make this readjustment on their own while others find assistance helpful.

Combat Stress Intervention Program

The Combat Stress Intervention Program is a three-year, Department of Defense funded research grant to examine the mental health needs of Reserve and National Guard veterans from rural Southwestern Pennsylvania returning from deployments supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF). CSIP and its research partners at Conemaugh Health Systems, Highlands Hospital, and Clemson University will investigate ways to reduce barriers to mental health care. Additionally, the program will engage mental health care providers, family members, and the general community to help them to understand how they can better serve the veteran population.

Talking to A Service Member you are Concerned About

If a veteran you know is experiencing mental health difficulties, remind the service member that:

There is nothing to be ashamed of, and many service members have the same experiences.
Getting help takes strength and maturity, and it may be the only way to solve the problem.
There are trained professional and effective treatments
There are people who understand and who can help.