Integrating a Systemic Paradigm When Treating Combat Veterans with PTSD

Under the current medical model, many veterans do not seek out mental health services, even when experiencing severe distress due to PTSD [7,8]. Combat veterans often fear the stigma associated with receiving a mental health diagnosis [9]. While veterans recognize the difficulties, they experience due to PTSD, they often resist being labeled as mentally weak [10]. In order to better serve this population, it is critical that mental health professionals consider new approaches to provide a less-stigmatizing environment and increase the likelihood of treating the many veterans and families who suffer.