United States Department of Veterans Affairs
National Center for PTSD

Returning from the War Zone: A Guide for Military Personnel

Veterans & General Public

A Guide for Military Personnel
This guide is for service members returning from deployment. It contains information to help military personnel understand what to expect when returning from a war zone, and to help them to better adapt back to home life.

Reintegration is an adjustment for all involved. This information aims to make this process as smooth as possible and covers:
A soldier is looking through a window of a helicopter
  • A description of the common reactions that occur following deployment to a war zone
  • Information about possible problems to watch out for, including PTSD
  • How expectations about homecoming may not be the same for service members and family members
  • The effects that war zone stress can have on your family and work life
  • What you can do to help yourself with readjustment
  • What help is available and what it involves
Printable full-color version
The screen shot of the military personnel guide in pdf format
 
Printable Full-Color Military Personnel Guide »
PDF icon Includes full color photos, stories, and live links! View online or print for handouts.
 
Note: This guide is ONLY available online & is not available in hard copy.
Guide for Military Personnel
 
The National Center has also produced a similar Guide for Family Members.