Veterans’ experiences of successfully managing post-traumatic stress disorder

Abstract

Purpose Prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) amongst UK veterans is higher than in the general population. However, prevalence figures do not reflect the complexity of this phenomenon and ways in which it may be bound up with veterans’ experiences of adjusting to civilian life. The purpose of this study was to explore veterans’ experiences of successfully managing PTSD. Design/methodology/approach Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six veterans who had served in the UK armed forces, and analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Findings Three themes were developed: (1) accepting the problem, taking responsibility and gaining control; (2) talking to the right people; and (3) strategies, antidotes and circling back around. Managing PTSD appeared to be bound up with veterans’ experience of renegotiating their identity, where positive aspects of identity lost on leaving the military were rebuilt, and problematic aspects were challenged. Participants sought to speak about their difficulties with others who understood the military context. They felt that their experiences made them a valuable resource to others, and they connected this with a positive sense of identity and value. Practical implications The findings suggest the importance of wider provision of peer support, and education for civilian health services on veterans’ needs. Originality/value This study adds to our understanding of what meaningful recovery from PTSD may involve for veterans, in particular its potential interconnectedness with the process of adjusting to civilian life.