Deployment Psychology Blog

Staff Perspective: Telling About the Trauma

Dr. Deb Nofziger

Previously, I wrote about why combat veterans hesitate to share details about their combat experiences. These insights could be adjusted to anyone who has experienced trauma. I’ve repeatedly had veterans, providers, and family members tell me this makes sense to them. However, understanding a hesitancy to share does not mean it is okay to tell loved ones absolutely nothing about what happened if someone is struggling with the aftermath of trauma. 

Research Update: 30 November 2023

The weekly Research Update contains the latest news, journal articles, and useful links from around the web. Some of this week's topics include:
● Bridging the Gap: Delivering Culturally Sensitive Care for Military-connected Patients in Community Settings.
● An empirical investigation of definitions of subthreshold posttraumatic stress disorder.
● The Role of Socioeconomic Position in the Association Between Mental Disorders and Mortality: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Practically Speaking: Behind the Episode “What Happened To You? Trauma-informed Care and Creating Healing Environments”

Dr. Kevin Holloway

Back in June of 2023, I attended the Psych Congress Elevate conference. I haven’t attended this conference in the past, but the topics and speakers looked interesting, and I needed some CEs. Plus, it was in Las Vegas, so extra bonus! I soon found that while psychologists were certainly welcomed and encouraged to attend, most of the presentations focused on pharmacological interventions for mental health issues. Fair enough, as I very much respect the important role pharmacology and prescribers play in addressing these conditions. Even though I felt like I was crashing someone else’s party, I value learning new things, especially if it helps me explain or present ideas to my clients that can be beneficial, even if I would not be the one prescribing or managing their medications.

By the Numbers: 27 November 2023

$11,500

The average amount spent on "out-of-pocket costs related to caregiving each year" by family members and others "who provide care for veterans," according to AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving. This is "1.5 times higher than what other family caregivers spend ($7,242)." Also, "43 percent of veteran and military caregivers experienced at least one financial setback such as having to take on more debt or dip into personal savings."

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